Honoring Transformative Leadership: Dr. Lakisa Mercy Faith Praised for Vision of a United and Prosperous Uganda

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LCC TV NEWS

KAMPALA, Uganda — In a heartfelt tribute to one of Uganda's emerging leaders, Dr. Lakisa Mercy Faith has been recognized for her unwavering commitment to national development. The tribute reads: "Your life's work stands as a bold testament to vision, courage, and transformative leadership. Thank you for daring to build a united, secure, and prosperous Uganda, laying a foundation that future generations will continue to build upon."

The recognition comes as Dr. Lakisa continues to make her mark in public service as the Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs and the Woman Member of Parliament for Alebtong District.

From Student Leader to National Decision-Maker

Dr. Lakisa's political journey began on university campuses. She served as the 83rd Vice Chairperson of the Makerere University Students' Guild and held leadership roles in the Uganda National Students' Association. A licensed dental surgeon by profession, her career has consistently centered on education, healthcare improvement, and youth empowerment.

Her appointment to the Cabinet of President Museveni marked a significant moment for youth representation in Uganda's government, with observers viewing it as a symbol of the rising influence of young leaders in national politics.

A Leadership Style Rooted in Action

Dr. Lakisa has positioned herself as an action-oriented leader. Since assuming office, she has moved swiftly across several critical areas:

Child Protection and Education: At the 2026 Day of the African Child commemorations, she called for an end to corporal punishment in schools, stressing that "discipline must be administered in ways that respect the dignity of the child while maintaining order in schools." She also highlighted the importance of improving school sanitation facilities, noting that adequate restroom facilities are essential to keeping students—especially adolescent girls—in school.

Youth Empowerment and International Cooperation: Dr. Lakisa has actively promoted cross-sector collaboration to expand opportunities for young people. At the national closing event of TeamUp Uganda, she urged stakeholders to "move beyond isolated interventions and strengthen collaboration that places young people at the center of development." She also met with a delegation from the Arab-African Youth Council, pledging deeper cooperation to "respond to the aspirations and needs of young people."

International Commitment to Children's Rights: In September 2026, Dr. Lakisa led Uganda's delegation to the 100th Session of the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, presenting the country's combined third to fifth periodic report. She described the review as "an opportunity to assess progress, identify gaps, and accelerate action," emphasizing that government efforts must "translate into measurable improvements in children's lives, not just policy development."

Road Safety Enforcement: She also drew attention for her decisive intervention in a school bus overload case. After intercepting a vehicle licensed to carry 29 passengers but transporting more than 70 students, she stated: "Our children are not cargo. They are Uganda's future. No convenience is worth the life of a child."

Building a Foundation for the Future

Dr. Lakisa's work reflects her commitment to prioritizing youth and children's affairs at the highest levels of government. Her efforts align with President Museveni's repeated emphasis on peace, unity, and wealth creation as pillars of national progress.

As the tribute affirms, her contributions represent "a foundation that future generations will continue to build upon." From student activist at Makerere University to national minister, Dr. Lakisa Mercy Faith's trajectory underscores the vital role of youth leadership in Uganda's development. Her work is not only about implementing policy today but about shaping a nation where the next generation can participate, contribute, and thrive.