“My mentor’s (Kadaga) long stay in politics and her indecisive move out of elective politics made me come out and challenge her seat,” said Kagona.
KADAGA’S INDECISION TICKLES BUSOGA YOUTH MINISTER TO RUN FOR HER SEAT COME 2026
To use her very own words while declaring her unreserved, well thought out resolve to stand against First Deputy Prime Minister and Former Speaker of parliament Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, Busoga Kingdom State Minister for Youth, Veronica Vennah Kagona who claims Kadaga to be her mentor, said, “Her long stay in politics and indecisive move out of elective politics made me come out and challenge her seat”.
Kagona who refers to herself as a seasoned journalist, says she has written for the Pepper Publication, the Daily Monitor and UBC TV, adding however that her work spans across journalism, farming, youth leadership, and entrepreneurship, and she believes her diverse career reflects her commitment to uplifting the community and advancing the lives of the youth, women, and farmers.
In an interview with Kyaggwe TV, Kagona asserts that her passion for truth and justice has driven her to use her journalistic skills to engage in projects that shape public opinion and bring attention to underrepresented issues.
“Beyond journalism, I am deeply rooted in agriculture both animal and crop. As a passionate farmer, I understand the importance of sustainable practices and innovation in the agricultural sector. My involvement in farming is not only an economic endeavor, but also a mission to ensure food security, empower fellow farmers with the knowledge and resources to succeed. Through my work, I advocate for the recognition of agriculture as a key pillar for economic development and the well-being of rural communities,” she pointed out.
Kagona, sworn NRM supporter like her ‘mentor’ Kadaga, said that as the Busoga Kingdom State Minister for Youth, she plays a pivotal role in empowering the youth, and strives to create opportunities that enable young people realize their potential through education, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.
She adds that her vision as a youth leader is to break the barriers that hinder the growth of the youth, especially in rural areas, and to foster a culture of self-reliance, innovation, and community involvement.
Emphasizing her work stamina, Kagona said, “I can say I am a successful businesswoman, where my entrepreneurial spirit at both my farms and restaurants has enabled me to contribute to both local and regional economies. My business endeavours are not only profit-driven but also serve to create jobs, promote women’s empowerment, and improve the livelihoods of people in my community.
Throughout the interview, she explicitly indicated that her motivation stems from a deep desire to make a positive and lasting impact, and that driven by a sense of responsibility in her community, she uses these platforms in all her multiple arenas to advocate for change, innovation, and the well-being of others.
She also claims to have a multifaceted career that serves as a testament to the power of determination and service, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, it is possible to create opportunities for oneself and for others while contributing to the broader development of Kamuli.
“My mentor’s (Kadaga) long stay in politics and her indecisive move out of elective politics made me come out and challenge her seat. Of Course before becoming a minister, I was this assertive journalist with the Pepper publications, later in the Daily Monitor and UBC. I used to cover most of them, so it wasn’t hard to penetrate their circles” Kagona explains further.
She is a daughter to Daudi Kagona and Nabirye Nyanzi Kagona, all living in Kamuli Municipality.
On the changed political landscape leading many influential figures in her party to defect to the vibrant National Unity Platform (NUP), she says many were overtaken by emerging forces and internal party dynamics, but that these challenges from last season exposed opportunities for fresh blood, and she is confident this time round the approach will be different.
“We have learnt from the past and we are going to use those mistakes and lessons of those who didn’t make it as a guide for a more calculated and strategic approach” Kagona asserts.
She promises that she will exhibit a peaceful political tenure which will bring back unity in Kamuli district; citing that the youths and the general public are tired of divisive politics and need a Kamuli where everyone thrives.
She was however frank that she will copy some of Kadaga’s character traits like her strong Leadership skills. “I have learnt from her that leadership isn’t about avoiding adversity but facing challenges head-on. I know Kamuli is not easy but I will manage” she confirmed to her supporters.
The youthful minister believes that her cultural, youthful, and fresh perspective of things will make her different because she observes, Kamuli needs fresh energy, new ideas, and a forward-thinking mindset to the NRM.
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