From Apathy to Activism: Can Uganda’s Gen-Z Find Its Political Voice? 

By Paul Kimbugwe, Political Analyst

“Uganda’s Future in Jeopardy: The Alarming Rise of Political Apathy Among Gen-Z”. The recent political engagement of Kenya’s Generation Z has thrown into sharp relief the concerning state of civic awareness among their Ugandan counterparts. This disparity is not coincidental but appears to be the result of deliberate policy choices that prioritize entertainment over civic education.

Gen-Z in Uganda: A Generation at Risk of Political Disenfranchisement. Uganda’s systematic removal of civic education from primary schools, political education from secondary institutions, and political science from universities has created a knowledge vacuum. This void is being filled with an increased emphasis on Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD), a shift that mirrors concerning trends seen in other African nations.

Consider the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a country blessed with immense natural wealth. Despite its resources, the DRC has struggled with governance issues for decades. A key factor in this struggle has been the political disengagement of its youth, who are more captivated by the allure of music stars like Papa Wemba, Tshala Mwana, Peppe Kale, Kanda Bongoman, Wenga Muzika, Awilo Longomba and Kofi Olomide than by civic responsibilities. This focus on entertainment has left the country’s vast resources vulnerable to exploitation by a small elite and foreign interests.

Similarly, in Jamaica, the pervasive influence of Rastafarian and Reggae culture, while culturally significant, has often overshadowed critical political engagement among the youth. The “Robadoba” style, as Ugandan politician Bobi Wine might describe it, has become an aspiration for many young people, potentially at the cost of political awareness.

Uganda appears to be following a similar trajectory. While Kenyan youth are articulating clear political demands, Uganda’s social media sphere is abuzz with the latest hits from artists like Lili Pazo (“Nkudi”), Shifra Ozambe, Alien Skin (“Sitya Danger”), and others. This preoccupation with entertainment, while not inherently negative, becomes problematic when it comes at the expense of civic engagement.

The implications of this trend are profound. Uganda’s Gen-Z, Disconnected and Disengaged from Politics” A politically unaware populace is more easily manipulated and less likely to hold its leaders accountable. This creates an environment where, as in the DRC, the country’s wealth can be exploited while the majority of citizens remain distracted.

However, it’s crucial to note that this situation is not irreversible. The Uganda Federal Consultative Council (UFCC) proposes a return to a federal structure, reminiscent of the 1962 Lancaster Constitution. This approach could potentially reinvigorate civic engagement by bringing governance closer to the people. The Silent Generation, Uganda’s Youth and the Looming Political Apathy Crisis

Moreover, initiatives like the proposed UNN Leadership Academy (coming soon…) could play a vital role in filling the civic education gap. By offering structured learning in politics, law, and philosophy, such institutions could cultivate a new generation of informed and engaged citizens.

The challenge for Uganda’s Gen-Z is to strike a balance between cultural expression and civic responsibility. While music and dance are integral parts of Ugandan culture, they should complement, not replace, political awareness.

As we observe the political awakening of Kenya’s youth, it serves as both an inspiration and a warning for Uganda. The vibrancy of Uganda’s music scene could be channeled into equally passionate civic engagement. However, this will require a concerted effort to reintroduce civic education and foster a culture of political awareness.

In conclusion, while Uganda’s Gen-Z currently appears more engaged with pop culture than politics, the potential for change remains. By learning from examples like the DRC and Jamaica, Uganda can work towards a future where cultural expression and civic responsibility go hand in hand.

The key lies in education, access to information, and the cultivation of a civic culture that encourages questioning and participation. Only then can Uganda’s youth hope to match the political vigor displayed by their Kenyan peers and shape a future that truly reflects their aspirations.