OPINION: THE YOUTH CAN TELL BETTER THE IMPACT OF CORONA VIRUS

By Adams Kibondo
www.mknewslink.com

Youths need to be taking their seat around the table (virtual of course!) because the only true experts of the youth, are the youth themselves. They are the ones best to tell you the impacts of COVID 19 and the lockdown on mental health, on the impact of sudden removal of support, or what this experience has taught them.
Right now, the youth, are counting on the adult decision makers and people in positions of power to make the right choices for us. #Lockdown helps these people understand that the youth are not just numbers, or stats, we are people with stories and with lives.
For example, the increased burden of being a young carer during the Covid-19 lockdown is having a significant impact on young people across the country saying they are now concerned about their ability to look after others.
After a large number of the youth losing their jobs. It’s important we remember the youth do fall under this category as well.
Moving forward, it is important that the youth understand what is happening, and why it is happening. The clearer the messages that are sent out, the easier things can be, and I’m not just talking about the rules or enforcement. I’m talking about positive messages too. Let young people know you’re there, let them know you see them as individuals.
In a time where being apart is getting tough, it’s time we show how connected the government and it’s sectors are with the youth. It’s no longer an ‘us and them’ kind of playing field. Let’s get through this together, let’s show that Uganda’s decision makers and the youth can link up on something that will undoubtedly change the future forever.
Adams Kibondo
Youth Empowerment Activist