KAMPALA – Ugandan youth are making waves in the Commonwealth, with two outstanding individuals shortlisted for the 2025 Commonwealth Youth Awards. Comfort Peace Ayikoru and Daphine Namagembe are among the 20 finalists selected from over 800 applications across the Commonwealth.
The Commonwealth Youth Awards recognize exceptional contributions by young people towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhancing development in their communities. Ayikoru and Namagembe’s innovative projects have demonstrated significant impact, earning them a spot among the top regional finalists.
Ayikoru is representing Uganda in the Africa region, alongside finalists from Kenya, Nigeria, and Tanzania. Her project focuses on addressing a pressing issue in her community, showcasing her creativity and dedication to creating positive change.
Other finalists in the Africa region include:
- Faith Kuya from Tanzania
- Fredrick Kioka Kilonzo from Kenya
- Stanley Anigbogu from Nigeria
Namagembe, on the other hand, is one of the five PEACE Award winners, recognized for her substantial contributions to fostering a more peaceful and equitable world. Her work has demonstrated a significant impact on promoting peace and social cohesion in her community.
Other PEACE Award winners include:
- Abongdoh Maluyane Titu from Cameroon
- Emmanuel Cosmas Msoka from the United Republic of Tanzania
- Fakhar Jabran from Pakistan
- Hafsah Muheed from Sri Lanka
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, congratulated the finalists, saying, “Our young people have shown genuine innovation and commitment in striving to make the Commonwealth fairer, more secure, more sustainable, and more prosperous.”
The awards ceremony will take place on March 12, 2025, at Marlborough House in London, and will be live-streamed on YouTube and Facebook. The Commonwealth Foundation will provide up to £30,000 in funding to support the awards, while the Khalili Foundation will present the PEACE awards.
Uganda’s youth are truly making a mark on the global stage, and Ayikoru and Namagembe’s achievements are a testament to the country’s vibrant and innovative young population. Their recognition by the Commonwealth Youth Awards is a proud moment for Uganda, showcasing the country’s commitment to empowering its youth to drive positive change.
As the awards ceremony approaches, Ugandans are eagerly awaiting the outcome, hoping that Ayikoru and Namagembe will bring home the top honors. Their success will not only be a triumph for themselves but also for their communities and the country as a whole.
