MENGO, Kampala- Abdu Karim Lukoda, the aspiring candidate to represent Mengo Parish at the Central Division Urban Council, has pledged to work with stakeholders and residents to find effective ways to tackle poverty and youth unemployment—problems that have left hundreds of young people idle and vulnerable to crime.
Lukoda, who is contesting on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, told this website yesterday in Kampala that if elected as the new councilor for Mengo Parish, he plans to introduce fresh ideas and strategies to engage stakeholders in addressing the challenge of youth unemployment, which continues to push many young people toward the fringes of criminal activity.
He emphasized that he would advocate for youth-friendly policies aimed at eradicating poverty, illiteracy, and joblessness. He also pledged to work with government and private sector service providers to create job opportunities particularly by empowering young people with vocational skills that lead directly to employment.
Lukoda noted that NUP’s political manifesto which focuses on fighting corruption, eradicating poverty, and advocating for quality healthcare for vulnerable citizens would guide his efforts to push for improved living standards for Ugandans, especially taxpayers.
He expressed concern over the meager monthly allowance of UGX 25,000 given to senior citizens by the government. Lukoda argued that the government should offer better support for this group, highlighting that many older persons have served the country in various leadership roles and have contributed significantly to national development through taxes.
On the subject of women’s empowerment, Lukoda pledged to ensure that the new council prioritizes strong advocacy efforts to promote equal participation of women in all government programs. He noted that many women particularly single mothers lack access to the financial resources needed to start and sustain profitable businesses.
