My Vote, My Voice: Ushahidi Foundation Rolls Out Nationwide Voter Education Drive

By Frank Kamuntu

Kampala, Uganda — Ushahidi Foundation Uganda (UFU) has officially launched its nationwide voter education initiative, “KURA YANGU, SAUTI YANGU” (My Vote, My Voice), aimed at empowering citizens with civic knowledge and tools to make informed choices in the upcoming 2025/2026 General Elections.

Speaking at the launch, Ms. Faridah Lule. N, the CEO of Ushahidi Foundation Uganda, emphasized the importance of civic engagement as a cornerstone of democracy, urging Ugandans to take an active role in shaping the country’s future through informed voting.

“Our campaign seeks to bridge the existing gap in voter sensitization, correct misconceptions about the electoral process, and encourage every eligible citizen to exercise their constitutional right to vote,” said Ms. Lule.

She further thanked the Electoral Commission (EC) and the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) for supporting Ushahidi Foundation’s voter education efforts, noting that this collaboration was crucial for strengthening Uganda’s democratic institutions.

Ms. Lule also applauded Dr. Livingstone Sewanyana, Founder and Executive Director of the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI), for his mentorship and support in her leadership journey.

“Dr. Sewanyana has been a pillar of guidance and inspiration. His mentorship has enabled me to build and grow Ushahidi Foundation into a platform that promotes transparency and democratic participation,” she said.

Ms. Lule called upon the Electoral Commission to swiftly accredit Ushahidi Foundation to undertake election observation ahead of the 2026 polls, noting that the organization had already successfully conducted voter observation during the Kawempe by-election.

In his remarks, Dr. Livingstone Sewanyana lauded Ms. Lule’s courage and determination to advance democratic ideals in Uganda.

“Faridah is a true foot soldier in the fight for democracy,” said Dr. Sewanyana. “Across Africa, democracy is often spoken about but rarely practiced. Uganda has embraced electoral democracy, and this must be upheld through respect for the rule of law and genuine free and fair elections.”

He urged governments to ensure that electoral processes remain transparent, balanced, and inclusive, with robust voter education to empower citizens to make informed decisions.

Electoral Commission Commends Ushahidi Foundation

Ms. Jacinta Kasozi, Senior Election Officer in the EC’s Voter Education and Training Department, commended Ms. Lule and Ushahidi Foundation for their contribution to voter sensitization efforts.

She revealed that the Electoral Commission has accredited over 50 voter education stakeholders nationwide and is working diligently—despite funding challenges—to ensure a transparent, credible, and peaceful election in 2026.

“We are committed to ensuring that the upcoming elections are free, fair, and reflective of the people’s will,” said Ms. Kasozi.

About The Campaign

The “KURA YANGU, SAUTI YANGU” campaign will focus on:

• Correcting misconceptions about voting and the electoral process
• Supporting the EC’s voter sensitization efforts
• Promoting voter registration and participation
• Encouraging citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote

Through this initiative, Ushahidi Foundation Uganda aims to cultivate an informed and active electorate, contributing to stronger democratic governance and civic responsibility.