TAKEAWAYS

• Balimwezo urged youth to stay neat, smart, and well-groomed when seeking jobs.
• He called on leaders to mentor young people on professionalism and personal hygiene.
• He clarified that his comments were about cleanliness and presentation—not dreadlocks.

Kampala Lord Mayor Eng. Ronald Balimwezo has urged Ugandan youth to embrace cleanliness, smart dressing, and personal grooming, saying these qualities can significantly improve their chances of accessing employment and other opportunities.

Speaking during a church service, Balimwezo encouraged fellow leaders to guide young people on the importance of maintaining a respectable appearance instead of shying away from offering such advice.

He recalled previous remarks that sparked public debate after he criticized some young people who visited his office seeking assistance while appearing untidy and poorly groomed. According to the Lord Mayor, personal presentation matters, especially when leaders are recommending job seekers to employers or government institutions.

“If I am taking someone to KCCA or any other office to help them secure a job, they should look presentable. Their appearance reflects not only on them but also on the person recommending them.” — Eng. Ronald Balimwezo

Balimwezo explained that when an individual appears clean, organized, and confident, it becomes easier for leaders to advocate for them and create a positive first impression with potential employers.

He further challenged leaders across the country to mentor young people by encouraging discipline, good hygiene, and professionalism rather than avoiding conversations that could help shape their future.

“Leaders should not fear advising young people. Encouraging them to be neat, smart, and responsible is part of preparing them for the opportunities they seek.” — Eng. Ronald Balimwezo

The Lord Mayor also dismissed reports claiming he had chased away political foot soldiers from his office because they had dreadlocks. He clarified that his concern has never been about hairstyles but rather about personal cleanliness, grooming, and presenting oneself in a manner that inspires confidence when seeking employment or other opportunities.