Uganda’s State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs Hon Balaam Barugahara has now been in office for about 18 months, he speaks to The Kampala Post on achievements, challenges and why he is betting on Museveni’s 2026 win.
The events guru-turned-minister who is one of the most recognizable ministers also opens up about rejecting electoral ambitions, navigating youth expectations, and leveraging private-sector grit in government. Below is the excerpt from our discussion:
Question: Honorable Minister. You’ve been in your current position for about 18 months. How do you assess your performance, and what can Ugandans expect from your leadership going forward?
Answer: Over the past 18 months, I have made remarkable progress in empowering youth and supporting communities. I have encouraged young people to engage in self-employment and entrepreneurship through government initiatives like the Youth Livelihood Programme, Emyooga, and the Parish Development Model. Together with Brig Gen Henry Isoke, we have mobilised youth to embrace transparency and reject corruption, while also working to recover mismanaged Youth Livelihood funds in districts such as Namutumba, Luuka, and Masaka.
I continue to advocate for youth rights, including securing the release of misled young people imprisoned for involvement in violence because of their wrong political approaches and encourage them to take advantage of education and skills programmes. I also support communities by donating items like chapati stoves, hand hoes, and seedlings, and I pledged to construct a classroom block at Namasagali Primary School.
Despite challenges such as high youth unemployment, with over 70% of Uganda’s population under 30, an underfunded ministry receiving less than Shs300 million for administration, and the need to use personal resources for mobilisation, I remain committed to empowering Uganda’s next generation.
Question: You are highly visible and have mobilised youth nationwide. Many expected you to pursue elective office. Why haven’t you?
Answer: My focus is on serving Uganda in my appointed role, not seeking elective office. As Minister, I oversee programmes that directly impact 78% of the population—children and youth. Like the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who prioritised professionalising the army over politics, I am committed to supporting the President and delivering the youth agenda. Elective politics is not my priority at the moment.
Question: Ugandans know you as a successful businessman and events promoter, even nicknamed ‘sabavulu’. How has your business background helped in your ministerial role?
Answer: My business background has sharpened my strategic thinking, financial literacy, problem-solving, and leadership. I use data to optimise resources, inspire my team, and adapt to changing circumstances. Together with my technical team, we implement cost-saving initiatives, analyse information to shape policy, and build partnerships to achieve better outcomes.
Question: With the 2026 elections approaching, what factors will do you think will determine the outcome, and how do you see President Museveni performing?
Answer: I am committed to ensuring President Museveni wins with over 75% in 2026. We are mobilising youth and sensitising them on government programmes like Youth Livelihood, Grow, and PDM, ensuring votes are protected from manipulation and our supporters are not intimidated, while a divided opposition increases Mzee Museveni’s chances.
Growing economic opportunities and Uganda’s strong international relations also strengthen his chances. With these factors, I am confident of a decisive victory.
Question: The NRM CEC campaigns are underway. Why haven’t you publicly supported any candidates?
Answer: I have stayed neutral to preserve unity within the party. Supporting one side could create divisions, and my priority is harmony in NRM.
Question: Some argue that the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) is taking a backseat as some of you focus on government duties. How do you respond to this?
Answer: PLU operates within NRM, and my government role strengthens my ability to promote its principles of zero tolerance for corruption and wastage. I remain committed to PLU’s vision and leadership, fully supporting Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba and President Museveni.
Question: As the general election approaches, how do you address concerns about election-related violence and malpractice as cited in some areas in the recently concluded NRM primaries?
Answer: I always advocate for peaceful conduct and respect for democratic principles. Allegations of violence and bribery in NRM primaries are being addressed through tribunals. As we head towards general elections, I urge Ugandans to follow the law, embrace issue-based politics, and reject violence.
Question: With your busy schedule, traversing the country and sometimes traveling abroad, some people wonder if you find time for your family?
Answer: Family is very important to me. Despite a busy schedule, I always make it a point to stay connected with the Lady Amooti that I love, my children - Abwooli Benta Karuhanga, Akiiki Brevan Kamukama, and Akiiki Biden Kamusime - as well as my beautiful nieces Whitney Kugonza Abwooli, Wilma Amooti, Sophie Nyamaizi, and the rest of our family. Uganda's development requires sacrifice, and I follow the example of President Museveni and Gen Salim Saleh.
Question: Any final words for our readers?
Answer: Let’s unite behind President Museveni to build a brighter Uganda. Promote peace, development, and patriotism, and pray for our next generation of leaders, including Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Together, we can create a prosperous nation. God bless Uganda.
