Belinda Amanya has officially wrapped up her tenure as the Speaker of the East African Community Youth Parliament (EACYP).
She was elected 6th Speaker in November 2023 in a tight race, where she defeated two male contestants from the Republics of Rwanda and South Sudan.
In a recent post, dated November 15, 2024, on her official X account, previously known as Twitter, the vibrant young leader, announced the completion of her term and shared that she had the honor of overseeing the opening ceremony and the inauguration of the new EACYP leadership.
“As I conclude my term of office, I reflect on the profound journey we have undertaken together. I had the honor of presiding over the opening ceremony and inauguration of the new leadership of the East African Youth Parliament @EACYParliament,” she wrote.
She extended her congratulations to his successor, Andrew Alak, from South Sudan, as well as to his deputy, Coviiren Akamutuha, from Rwanda, expressing her confidence that they will excel in their roles throughout their term.
“I have no doubt you will serve extremely well,” she added.
Amanya remarked that working with the youth of East Africa has provided an incredible learning journey and a remarkable chance for personal development.
“I have been fortunate to receive mentorship from esteemed leaders in both governance and EAC integration. Collaborating with @EACYouthLeague to host #EACYouthSeminas across member states has allowed us to sensitize our youth and expedite the integration process within the EAC,” she added.
The youth of East Africa, she emphasized, embody a significant force for effective and transformative integration.
She highlighted the importance of developing clear and practical policies that not only encompass young people but also engage them actively in promoting their contributions, enhancing their skills, creating opportunities, ensuring representation, and fostering engagement.
“Together, we can make East Africa a beacon of progress and unity,” she noted.
She conveyed her sincere appreciation to a number of important individuals and organizations, including the Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and his team.
She also acknowledged the EALA representatives from Uganda, the Speaker of the Uganda Parliament, Anitah Among, the 1st Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of EAC Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, as well as the Faraja Africa Foundation, the European Union in Uganda, and the EU Youth SoundBoard.
“Thank you for your mentorship, guidance, and for providing me with platforms that have enabled me to advocate for the youth of the EAC while grooming me as a young leader,” Amanya noted.
She pledged to continue upholding the East African dream and actively contributing to the unification of our region.
Her inspiring journey, supported and cultivated by Women Leadership Development (WLEDE), highlights the profound impact of committed initiatives aimed at youth empowerment.
As a proud alumnus and active participant of WLEDE, she is also a law student at Gulu University.
During her tenure, Amanya was tasked with amplifying the voices of the EACYP, ensuring that their insights are acknowledged and respected by key stakeholders.
The EACYP works closely with partners like the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) and collaborates with fellow delegates to advocate for their shared perspectives.
Founded in 2009 under the East Africa Community Convention declaration, the EACYP stands as a pillar for youth empowerment initiatives.
Amanya’s evolution from a beneficiary to a key leader in the East African Youth Parliament illustrates the transformative power of programs like WLEDE.
Her achievements serve as a motivating example, showcasing the collective efforts to empower young leaders especially the girl child, and promote sustainable development throughout the region.
