PROFILE: Who is Phiona Nyamutoro, the youngest minister in Museveni’s new cabinet

Kampala, (UG):- In the recently released ‘mini cabinet’ reshuffle, President Yoweri Museveni introduced new faces as ministers, among whom included Phiona Nyamutoro, appointed new State Minister for Energy (in charge of minerals).

Nyamutoro, in her late 20s, was not known to many except those who closely follow youth politics in the country until her ministerial appointment. Currently a National Youth MP in the August House, the Nebbi born legislator is famously known for having served as Makerere vice guild president between 2015 -2016.

Speaking of her maiden appointment through her X platform, Nyamutoro expressed gratitude to President Museveni for the opportunity to serve the country in this capacity.

In the carefully crafted message, she thanked President Museveni for his confidence in her abilities saying; “Gratitude to H.E Kaguta Museveni for the vote of confidence with yet another opportunity to serve my beloved country. Thank you for amplifying the youth voice.”

“This appointment is a resounding testimony to the potential, abilities and brilliance young people showcase when centralised in the development of the nation. May the God who has raised the greatest of leaders, give us the grace and wisdom to meaningfully impact the lives of the people that have entrusted us with the virtue of leadership,” she added.

In her message, Nyamutoro also called upon divine guidance for her new responsibilities, saying, “May the God who has raised the greatest of leaders give us the grace and wisdom to meaningfully impact the lives of the people that have entrusted us with the virtue of leadership.”

Those close to Nyamutoro describe her as a Charismatic and Patriotic Ugandan youth mentor and ardent Development Practitioner.

“She is passionate about amplifying Human Rights Based Approach [HRBA] to Development such as; Girl Child initiatives, Youth Development, Good Governance and Community Social Transformation,” says a close associate of the Nebbi-born minister.

But Who is Phiona Nyamutooro?

Phiona Nyamutooro is a Ugandan politician and legislator representing the Youth in the parliament of Uganda, she is the National female youth Member of parliament in the parliament of Uganda.

Nyamutooro is an ardent supporter and cadre of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the current State Minister for Minerals in the Ministry of Energy and Minerals Development, a position she was appointed to by the President on 22nd March 2024.

Education

Nyamutoro holds a First-class Degree in Arts and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Makerere University.

Career

During her time at campus, Nyamutoro comprehensively secured working experiences with young people in different fields among others, Vice Guild President Makerere University 2015-2016 which opened her career pathway into elective politics.

She was also a member of the National Youth Council representing Nebbi District and is currently the National Youth MP in Uganda’s Eleventh Parliament, the first-ever to come from Nebbi and West Nile at large.

In other circles, Nyamutoro is a champion of anti-pregnancy and Gender issues, and in parliament, she sits on the Committee on Education and Sports.

Personal life

Phiona Nyamutoro is not known to be married publicly, although she is ‘rumoured’ to be an item with Eddy Kenzo, the President of the Uganda Musicians Association.

What Nyamutoro’s appointment means

Nyamutoro’s appointment is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the potential and brilliance that young Ugandans possess when given the platform to contribute to the nation’s development. It underscores the government’s commitment to harnessing the energy and ideas of the youth for a brighter future.

As she steps into this new role, all eyes are on Phiona Nyamutoro as she takes on the responsibilities of a Minister, poised to make a significant difference in the lives of Ugandans and further amplify the voice of the youth in the country’s governance.