KABALE — A 35-year-old graduate with a degree in Public Administration from Uganda Christian University is shining a spotlight on the employment challenges facing many young Ugandans after ending up working as a toilet attendant in Kabale Municipality despite her academic qualifications.
Lonny Twinamatsiko, who also holds additional certificates from Makerere University, said she chose the modest job of cleaning and managing public toilets in Kabale to support herself in the face of limited formal employment opportunities.
Speaking to Nile Post, Twinamatsiko explained that while the work is honest and helps her meet some basic needs, it also comes with financial pressures. “This work has helped me buy things like a phone, food and other items I use at home,” she said, highlighting that the job allows her to stay financially afloat.
However, Twinamatsiko noted the difficulties that come with the role, including the high cost of cleaning materials and dealing with misuse of the facilities. “Some customers misuse or dirty the facility excessively, and when it comes time to clean it, I end up spending a lot of money on cleaning,” she said.
Her experience underlines the broader challenge of youth unemployment in Uganda, where even degree holders often struggle to find work that matches their education. Despite this, Twinamatsiko urged other young Ugandans to embrace resilience and dignity in work, no matter how humble, while continuing to seek better opportunities.
As the country observes International Women’s Day, her story has resonated with many as a testament to the perseverance of women and young people striving to build livelihoods against economic odds.
