Vibrant #TeamEurope event marking Democracy Day 2024 in Uganda

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Vibrant #TeamEurope event marking Democracy Day 2024 in Uganda

On behalf of #TeamEuropein Uganda, the European Union Delegation to Uganda and the Embassy of Sweden in Kampalaorganised a vibrant event to mark the International Day of Democracy, with a special focus on perspectives of Uganda's youth and their role in governance.

© European Union Delegation to Uganda

The event, hosted at the residence of the Swedish Ambassador to Uganda, H.E Maria Håkansson, saw a group of young Ugandans play an interactive game called #Electionville, exploring the reality of what it takes to run a local government. It was a fun packed engagement on democracy in action.

Electionville is a fictional city in the shape of an educational floor game, where the participants take on the challenging roles of county council members. Equally fun and engaging, the main objective of the Electionville toolkit is to educate about and provide insights into how democracy works.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Håkansson noted recent national census results which showed that 73% of Uganda's population is below the age of 30, and said: "We therefore believe that engaging with young people is not only essential but the right way to go for the future of democracy in this country."

Mr Francis Kibirige presented results from a 2024 Afrobarometer survey on the relationship between Ugandan politicians and their voters' post-election. Among key highlights from the results is data that showed majority of Ugandans expressed dissatisfaction with their elected officials.

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Hon. Norbert Mao, who was chief guest, delivered an impassioned speech, diving deep into the challenges politicians face in decision making processes, often finding themselves at crossroads as they seek to balance public and personal interest.

EU Ambassador H.E Jan Sadek said he was encouraged by the impressive contributions from the young women and men at the event, noting, democratic governance is about how interests are articulated, resources managed and power exercised.

He said the EU has been supporting democratization and fundamental freedoms in Uganda by encouraging broad participation in political decision-making and local ownership of sectors that are key for sustainable development.

He pointed out that the EU has been working with a wide range of Ugandan partners, including grass-roots organisations, electoral bodies, political parties, parliaments and media, with a particular attention in facilitating the involvement of women and youth in civic and political life.

The event was honored by the presence of a rich and diverse audience including academics, media, political actors at the center and local government, civil society, young women and men, diplomats, the private sector among others.

A special note of thanks for the contributions to the debate by our guests; Justice Minister Hon. Norbert Mao, Kampala Capital City Authority - KCCADeputy Lord Mayor Nyanjura Doreen, Deputy Lord Mayor, Electoral Commission UgandaCommissioner Dr Sallie Simba, UPC Secretary General Hon. Fred Ebil and MPs Honourable Frank Kabuye of National Unity Platformand National Resistance Movement - NRM's Fox Odoi.