Uganda’s youth, who constitute both the youngest and largest segment of the population, represent a critical driver of the country’s development. Recognizing this potential, young people have consistently articulated their priorities and aspirations as part of shaping Uganda’s governance and development agenda.

The National Youth Manifesto serves as a strategic policy document that consolidates these priorities, providing a framework through which young people can influence political parties, governments, and development stakeholders, particularly during electoral processes.

Open Space Year 15 Newsletter

In September–October 2024, we proudly celebrated 15 years of service. Today, we take another step forward, entering our 16th year of creating impact, fostering meaningful partnerships, and deepening engagement with you, our valued stakeholders.

Before we move ahead, let’s take a moment to reflect on the highlights of our 15th year. Dive into this newsletter and relive the moments that defined it.

Openspace Newsletter 2025

Heading into the 2026 elections and a changing political landscape, the 2026–2031 National Youth Manifesto calls out exactly what young people want on the national agenda.

In this abridged version, you will find a breakdown of what young people prioritise…

1. Human capital development
2. Governance and security
3. Agro-industrialisation
4. Climate, green jobs,& renewable energy
5. Digital transformation
6. Infrastructure & Services

This popular version presents the core priorities identified by young people for the 2026–2031 term. It outlines practical demands and proposals that, if addressed, will not only respond to the needs of the youth but also contribute significantly to Uganda’s broader social and economic transformation.

Voter Education Handbook

The Voter Education Handbook, shared with courtesy from the Electoral Commission, is a valuable resource to help citizens, Election Officials, and stakeholders through the electoral process. It fosters awareness, encourages informed participation, and promotes a culture of good governance. By equipping voters to engage responsibly and respect diverse choices, the handbook supports the Commission’s mission of delivering free, fair, and credible elections. Download the handbook below to stay informed and ready to participate.

Voter Education Hand book 2020

#ReadyToStand

#ReadyToVote

#Youth4PeaceUG

What does unemployment look like for Ugandan youth? Does the NDPIV have strategies for this?

Together with the Centre for Basic Research, we curated an issue and opinion paper on youth transition from school to employment

Who Shapes Uganda’s Elections?

As the 2026 general elections approach, Open Space, in collaboration with the Centre for Basic Research, has examined youth participation across Uganda’s four regions under the Strengthening Youth Civic Participation Project. Our findings shed light on the role of young people in elections, the barriers they face, and what can be done to enhance their engagement.

Explore the full report and share your thoughts on fostering meaningful and peaceful participation in the  2025- 26 general elections 

This paper analyses Uganda’s youth demographics and development indicators and provides policy and programmatic proposals for inclusion in the National Development Plan Four (NDP IV). The key emerging demographic challenge is the youth not in employment, education, and training (NEET), which is estimated to be over two million.

In recognition of the country’s youth context and civil society environment, the organization’s programs have been designed to address youth inequalities that limit their participation in development processes. Our 5-year strategy(2021–2026) charts a roadmap on how Open Space Centre will achieve its desired…

This year 2021/2022, the center’s funding grew immensely to include new partners such as the US Mission Uganda, USAID/PEPFAR, The NGO Forum, and UKAID who supported projects across all Open Space thematic areas. The organization’s fundraising process has remained hinged on the vision to support youth local and global agendas as well as Knowledge…

The year 2019-2020 has been a new level of growth, learning and evaluation for the organization amidst the wave of fast paced
changing contexts within the country. This year unmasked Open Space’s resilience and capability to evolve to new realities with…