Mayiga Blames Uganda’s Troubles on Unprepared Leaders, Urges Youth to Step Up

The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has attributed many of Uganda’s persistent problems to a failure in leadership preparation, warning that the country risks stagnation unless it cultivates disciplined, visionary leaders—especially among the youth.

Speaking during a leadership handover ceremony for the cultural youth group Nkobazambogo Akaliba Akendo at Bulange, Mengo, Mayiga criticized what he called disorganized governance fueled by rushed and poorly thought-out policy decisions.

Citing the rollout of the Electronic Physical Stickers (EPS) system as a case in point, he said such initiatives often backfire due to inadequate planning and stakeholder engagement.

“When you put unprepared individuals in positions of responsibility, what you get is confusion and frustration,” Mayiga stated.

“A policy like the EPS was meant to help, but because of poor preparation, it’s now causing more harm than good.”

He encouraged the youth to take their roles in society seriously and to cultivate discipline, talent, and cultural identity as tools for national and personal development.

The event, attended by youth leaders, students, and Buganda Kingdom officials, also saw the official swearing-in of Mutebi Acram Miiro as the new chairperson of Nkobazambogo Akaliba Akendo, replacing Nansubuga Sharuwa.

Nansubuga, in her farewell speech, decried the reluctance of some school administrations to support cultural youth groups like Nkobazambogo.

“When schools deny students the chance to engage with their culture, they’re also denying them a sense of identity and belonging,” she said.

Mayiga urged school proprietors and administrators to actively support cultural organizations in their institutions, noting that such platforms offer valuable leadership and life skills.

Buganda Youth Minister Robert Serwanga emphasized the need for youth to stay academically focused while participating in kingdom programs.

“Your energy and involvement shape Buganda’s future. Continue to engage, but always seek guidance and stay disciplined,” he advised.

Buganda Youth Council chairperson Derrick Kavuma echoed the theme of leadership maturity, stressing humility as a critical virtue.

“Leadership without humility leads to isolation and failure. Collaborate with those above and beside you,” he said.

The ceremony underscored Buganda Kingdom’s renewed focus on youth mentorship, cultural pride, and leadership grooming, positioning young people at the center of its long-term vision for a grounded and prosperous society.