The effect of COVID-19 pandemic on youth lifestyles in Kawempe division: a case of Kawempe I Parish

Abstract

Using a qualitative case study design and a sample of 19 respondents, this study explored the effect of COVID-19 pandemic to youth lifestyles in Kawempe Division. Data was collected using a focus group discussions and interviews from a select of youths, parents, youth leaders, and managers of youth-based CBOs in Kawempe Division. The study found out many youths faced a number of challenges due to the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic and this affected them mentally, physically, socially and economically, leading to adopting and adapting to different lifestyles as a way of coping with the demands of the new normal. This study concludes that, when such pandemics happen, lifestyles for all categories of people are destroyed, bring a number of complications and in the process of fighting for survival, the victims (as individuals and in groups) will try out a number of strategies. Therefore, the study suggests that, to mitigate challenges and effects that come along with pandemics of COVID nature, among other things, it is necessary to create an atmosphere that allows and promotes collaboration amongst parties and as well avenues that strengthen social support networks to empower and uplift the wellbeing of the populace.