By Nathan Eyagu
SOROTI - A coalition of journalists from the Teso Media Initiative for Development (TEMID) and Teso Journalists for Development (TEJFOCE) has officially declared their support for fellow journalist Noah Omuya in his bid to become the Eastern Region Youth Member of Parliament.
The announcement was made during a meeting held at Villa Nora Guest House in Soroti City on Friday, where journalists and media professionals from across the region pledged their commitment to mobilizing support for Omuya.
Mr. Odongo Sam, Chairperson of Teso Media Initiative for Development SACCO, commended Omuya’s decision to run, describing it as a historic moment for journalists entering mainstream politics.
"As a journalist, Omuya has been a voice for the voiceless, and now, as a leader, he has the ability to directly influence policies that benefit young people. We will rally behind him to ensure he secures the NRM party flag and ultimately wins the general election," Odongo stated.
Odongo, a staunch NRM mobilizer, also called upon President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the National Chairman of the NRM party, to endorse Omuya as the most suitable candidate for the position.
"This is the time for President Museveni to support young, visionary leaders like Omuya, who have demonstrated competence, commitment, and a clear agenda for the youth," Odongo added.
Veteran journalist Daniel Outa advised Omuya to remain focused on his vision and not be swayed by political maneuvering within the NRM party.
"Mr. Omuya, politics is a battlefield where big names will attempt to buy you out with money and influence, but you must stand firm. Your strength lies in your ideas and the people who believe in your leadership," Outa cautioned.
He further urged Omuya to be open to diverse perspectives and engage with all stakeholders to ensure inclusive representation of young people.
During the meeting, Noah Omuya presented a detailed manifesto centered on youth empowerment, economic opportunities, and sustainable development. His key priorities include:
1. Tackling Youth Unemployment
- Promoting entrepreneurship and advocating for policies that support youth-led businesses.
- Lobbying for youth startup tax exemptions to encourage self-employment.
- Creating skills development programs to prepare young people for the evolving job market.
2. Education & Skills Development
- Advocating for increased government funding for vocational and technical training.
- Ensuring that education policies align with the demands of the job market.
- Expanding access to scholarships and student loan programs.
3. Climate Change & Sustainable Development
- Advocating for climate-resilient policies to safeguard the environment.
- Promoting eco-friendly business opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
- Mobilizing youth participation in climate action initiatives** across the region.
"I strongly believe that the youth must take charge of their future. We need policies that work for us, not against us. My focus is on creating sustainable opportunities for young people to thrive," Omuya emphasized.
Who is Noah Omuya?
Noah Omuya is a journalist, youth advocate, and media entrepreneur with an extensive background in leadership, policy advocacy, and sustainable development.
He hails from Wera Town Council in Amuria District and is the younger brother of Hon. Grace Akello, the former Principal Private Secretary to President Museveni, former Ugandan Ambassador to India, and former Katakwi Woman MP.
Omuya’s career began as a radio journalist at Joshua FM in Katakwi before he transitioned into parliamentary reporting and news anchoring at TV East. He later founded Aica Communications, a media platform dedicated to climate journalism, youth advocacy, and media training.
A Proven Track Record in Leadership & Advocacy
Omuya’s experience in youth leadership, media advocacy, and policy engagement sets him apart as a dynamic and results-driven leader. His achievements include:
1. National Youth Advocacy & Engagement with President Museveni (2021)
- In 2021, Omuya engaged President Yoweri Museveni at State House, Entebbe, where he advocated for youth startup tax exemptions to ease financial burdens on young entrepreneurs.
- He also pushed for policies to reduce youth unemployment and promote skills training.
2. Regional Coordinator for the Uganda Youth Coalition for SDGs (2022)
- Elected as the Eastern Uganda Regional Coordinator, where he spearheaded initiatives linking regional youth efforts with government resources.
- Worked on strategies to integrate the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national youth programs.
3. Climate Action & Environmental Advocacy (2023)
- Organized climate awareness campaigns in Soroti City and Serere District, bringing together key leaders such as Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga and Hon. Hellen Adoa.
- Led efforts to mobilize youth participation in climate resilience programs.
4. Unlocking Entrepreneurship Opportunities for Youth (2023)
- Facilitated a leadership boot camp in Amuria District, equipping young people with leadership, entrepreneurship, and climate resilience skills.
- Successfully secured UGX 50 million in seed funding from the Ministry of Microfinance for youth business projects.
- Worked with Junior Achievement Uganda to train youth in business management and financial literacy.
A Leader for the Next Generation
Omuya is a firm believer in servant leadership, advocating for policies that empower young people to take active roles in decision-making.
"The future belongs to us - the youth. We must be the ones shaping policies, advocating for change, and ensuring that government initiatives are tailored to our needs. Leadership is not about personal gain; it’s about service," he stated.
He has also participated in several prestigious fellowships, including:
- British Council Future News Worldwide Fellowship (London, 2020)
- Climate Tracker Africa Energy Reporting Fellowship (2020)
- InfoNile - Code for Africa Data Journalism Fellowship (2020)
- Media Challenge Fellowship (2019)
Conclusion: A Strong Contender for Eastern Region Youth MP
With strong support from the media fraternity, youth leaders, and NRM mobilizers, Noah Omuya has emerged as a formidable candidate in the race for the Eastern Region Youth MP seat.
His extensive experience in media, policy advocacy, and youth leadership positions him as a progressive leader ready to champion the interests of young people in Parliament.
As the 2025-2026 elections draw closer, Omuya’s campaign is expected to gain further momentum, with youth and development stakeholders rallying behind his vision for a more empowered, self-sufficient, and resilient generation.
"A vote for Noah Omuya is a vote for progress, empowerment, and a brighter future for the youth of Eastern Uganda."