Government officials have called upon the youth to participate in the parliamentary elections which are due next month.

The officials made the call on Saturday during the national celebration for the International Youth Day in Mwili Sector, Kayonza District

"Youth constitute 60 per cent of the candidates, you understand that when you do not go to vote, we face a big problem. You should participate, you should go to vote for leaders of your choice, but you should also look for votes, because you too have your platform; youth vote for two people to represent them in the parliament,” the Minister for Youth, Rosemary Mbabazi, told the youth.

The celebrations were marked by ‘Umuganda’ where the youth and government officials participated in renovating Nyamugali Cell playground. The youth also participated in a quiz session.

"We will keep encouraging them to make the most of the opportunities they have,” the minister said.

The UN Resident Coordinator in Rwanda, Fodé Ndiaye, said world youth need physical, political, economic and digital space as well as job opportunities, among others, for them to contribute to development.

Kayonza District Mayor Jean-Claude Murenzi

"The difference between countries will be the way young people are treated and the position that they are having in decision-making in society,” said the UN Rwanda official.

The International Youth Day is celebrated annually on August 12. This year’s theme is "Safe Spaces for Youth”. The day is an opportunity for governments and other stakeholders to draw attention to issues affecting the youth globally.

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