HR leaders call for stronger ties to tackle youth jobs crisis
Leaders from Uganda’s nonprofit sector gathered on Friday at Royal Suites Bugoloobi to discuss strategies for reducing joblessness among young people and creating better workplace conditions. BrighterMonday Uganda organized the NGO HR Summit 2025 with support from Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works program under the banner From Uncertainty to Opportunity.
Pamela Kabahesi, who leads country programming at BrighterMonday Uganda, said meaningful work requires more than paychecks. Employment must provide dignity and personal fulfillment while helping graduates advance into management positions, she explained. Emily Aneno Byaruhanga, who chairs the NGO HR Network, told attendees that hiring decisions should contribute to national development rather than simply filling vacancies. Mental wellness has become a priority requiring executive attention instead of remaining a secondary concern, she added.
Commissioner Zakari Kansiime represented the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development at the event. He urged nonprofit organizations to maintain fair treatment of workers even during operational difficulties. Xenia Wichira, country director at BrighterMonday Uganda, noted that modern employees research potential supervisors and seek mentorship opportunities before accepting positions. The organization has expanded beyond job listings into comprehensive human resources support services.
