Youth identity in urban Uganda is shaped by socio-economic factors such as education levels and employment opportunities. A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews with quantitative surveys to analyse data from a stratified sample of urban residents. Youth in lower socio-economic brackets were less likely to participate in local governance compared to those in higher brackets (35% vs. 48%). Youth identity and socioeconomic status are significant predictors of political engagement, with marginalized groups needing targeted interventions. Integrate youth empowerment programmes into urban development strategies to increase civic participation among disadvantaged youth.