The Impact of COVID-19 on Youth Well-Being in Uganda: Youth Voices

• In Event: The Developmental Consequences of COVID-19 and a Look Ahead

Abstract

Globally, COVID-19 has had wide-ranging effects on health and wellbeing. This paper examines the impact of COVID-19 on youth wellbeing in Kampala, Uganda during the pandemic. Twenty-five youth participated in The Wellbeing Club, a curriculum facilitated by a local NGO, Africa Education & Leadership Initiative (Africa ELI), to identify strengths and challenges to their wellbeing. Data include youth interviews, facilitator interviews, field notes, and study documents. Data were analyzed based on a multidimensional wellbeing framework. Results indicate the substantial impact of COVID-19 on youth health and wellbeing, with far-reaching effects on personal safety, engagement, basic needs, fair and just community, purpose, and growth and flourishing. Recommendations include prioritizing opportunities for youth reengagement post-pandemic, and policies that promote safety and wellbeing.

Authors

• Patrick Kanyeihamba
  Non-Presenting Author

• Peninah Beinomugisha
  Non-Presenting Author

• Zaharah Namanda
  Non-Presenting Author

• Norah Nalutaaya
  Non-Presenting Author

• Wendy Wei Cheung
  Non-Presenting Author

• Rebecca S. Levine, University of California - San Diego
  Presenting Author

• Abdul-Rehman M. Issa, University of California - San Diego
  Non-Presenting Author

• Amy Vatne Bintliff, University of California - San Diego
  Non-Presenting Author