The International Youth Day celebrations at Ndeeba Railway Grounds marked a significant moment for the ghetto youth of Kampala. Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs and Translations, Hon. Ruth Katushabe, delivered a powerful message, urging the youth to take control of their lives and reject the destructive path of drug abuse.

Represented by her personal assistant, Ms. Nakimuli Hanifah, Hon. Katushabe commended the youth, particularly those from challenging environments like the Ndeeba ghetto, for their resilience and determination. She recognized their efforts to rise above the vices that often plague such communities, including drug abuse, robbery, and exploitation by politicians.

The advisor praised the youth for their commitment to self-improvement and highlighted the importance of their role in the broader agenda of social and economic transformation championed by President Museveni. “Your courage to stand against drug abuse and other harmful activities is commendable,” Ms. Nakimuli conveyed on Katushabe’s behalf. “You are not alone in this fight; you have our motherly support and guidance wherever needed.”

Hon. Katushabe urged the youth to embrace skilling and empowerment programs, emphasizing that these are the keys to breaking free from the cycles of poverty and vice. She encouraged them to follow President Museveni’s vision of social-economic transformation, which prioritizes skills development and economic empowerment as pathways to a better future.

The event, organized by community leaders Mr. Solomon Ssemaganda and Shafiq Mbabali under the theme “Stop Drug Abuse,” aimed to address the critical issue of drug abuse that has wreaked havoc in many communities. Issues like school dropouts, early pregnancies, child marriages, the spread of HIV/AIDS, and rising crime rates were all highlighted as direct consequences of drug abuse, underlining the importance of the day’s message.

The gathering was a call to action, not just for the youth but for the entire community to work together in eradicating drug abuse and fostering a culture of empowerment and positive transformation. Hon. Katushabe’s message resonated deeply with the attendees, reinforcing the notion that the future of the ghetto youth is in their hands and that they have the support of leaders who believe in their potential.

As the celebrations concluded, the youth of Ndeeba and surrounding areas left with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to take control of their lives, armed with the knowledge that they are valued and supported in their journey towards a better, drug-free future.