Juma Wasswa Balunywa Launches Campaign for Eastern Youth MP with a Bold Vision for Uganda and Africa

As the 2026 General Elections draw near, youthful aspirant Juma Wasswa Balunywa has thrown his hat into the ring, formally declaring his intention to contest for Youth Member of Parliament (MP) for the Eastern Region. With a powerful message centered on patriotism, Pan-Africanism, education, and youth empowerment, Balunywa is rallying young people across the region — and the continent — to believe in a new generation of transformative leadership.

“My aspiration to serve is rooted in the desire to make a difference,” Balunywa stated. “I began this journey as a youth leader in the university, where I received overwhelming support for the ideas I stood for. Now, I feel it is time to carry those ideas to a much bigger platform — the youth of Eastern Uganda, and beyond.”

From Local Roots to Pan-African Dreams

Balunywa’s message is grounded in the vision of Pan-Africanism, a philosophy that echoes the longstanding advocacy by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. He argues that Uganda’s future cannot be separated from that of the continent, and that young leaders must begin thinking beyond local boundaries.

“The development of this country can only be achieved if we think Pan-African. Patriotism must lead us not only to serve Uganda, but also to imagine a prosperous Africa — free from poverty, full of opportunity,” he emphasized.

Key Pillars of Balunywa’s Campaign

1. Tackling Population Growth through Education

Balunywa draws attention to Uganda’s rapid population growth, especially among teenagers, caused largely by school dropouts. He cites his father’s reflection that "they are not delivering children, they are delivering poverty."

“We must fight to keep every child in school. Girls and boys alike. If we do this, we can slow down unplanned population growth and set families on the path of prosperity,” he said.

2. Confronting Unemployment through Science and Technology

Noting that 70% of Uganda’s population depends on subsistence agriculture, Balunywa calls for a paradigm shift toward science and technology education to create modern, sustainable jobs.

“We cannot transform our country unless we embrace science and innovation. President Museveni has long championed this approach, and I stand firmly behind it. Uganda must produce scientists, engineers, coders, innovators,” he declared.

3. Creating and Retaining High-Quality Jobs

Balunywa is critical of the country’s export of raw materials and insists that Uganda must add value to its resources locally to create high-paying jobs.

“Why should we export cotton and minerals, only to import finished goods? Those jobs must stay here. I commend President Museveni for halting iron ore exports. We must continue that direction so that Ugandan industries benefit from Ugandan resources,” he asserted.

4. Urban Planning and Business Efficiency

The aspiring MP advocates for the reorganization of emerging towns, warning against Kampala-style congestion and unregulated sprawl.

“Business is being slowed by traffic and poor planning. If we want vibrant and competitive towns, we must plan better. Roads must be gazetted, space must be protected, and business zones must be clearly mapped out.”

5. Infrastructure and Long-Term Planning

While recognizing the NRM government's achievement in constructing over 10,000 kilometers of tarmac roads, Balunywa highlights the need for proper zoning and gazetting of these roads to support future growth.

“Unplanned development will ruin our towns. We must protect public spaces and roads. Let’s build towns that serve people efficiently — with good drainage, clear road networks, and accessible services.”

A Call to Action: Entrusting the Youth

In his concluding remarks, Balunywa appealed to the youth of Eastern Uganda to entrust him with the mandate to represent their interests in Parliament.

“It is said that the role of a leader is to help the community transform itself. That is the role I wish to play. I will not promise miracles, but I promise to fight for opportunities — for education, jobs, and dignity. Together, let’s build a better future, not just for Uganda, but for Africa.”

As Uganda prepares for a pivotal general election, voices like Balunywa’s offer a glimpse of the rising generation — bold, educated, and determined to shape a different kind of leadership, one rooted in ideas, not just slogans.

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