Government urged to solve the problem of unemployment and unfavourable working conditions

2 May 2025, 9:36 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Hundreds of Ugandans gathered at Nakaale grounds in Nakapiripiriti district, Karamoja sub-region, to join the rest of the world in commemorating the 2025 International Labor Day under the Theme, “Consolidating the gains of the Parish Development Model for increased production and inclusive Job creation” President, Yoweri Museveni, as the chief guest in his address thanked the ministry of gender labour and social development and other stakeholders for organizing the event. Museveni also promised the people of Karamoja sub-region and other parts of the country that his government will do whatever it takes to end casual labor and that efforts are going to be done to stop the act of investors to import workers to do Jobs which can be done by Ugandans. “Through Parish Development Model, Ugandans will be able to create wealth which creates jobs. I thank you for the support you have shown me,” he said. The president added that concerning the request from people of Karamoja sub-region to contest for presidency in 2026, he said he will tell the central executive committee of the National Resistance Movement what people wants, and then the party will decide.

In the same manner, the Minister of gender, labour and social development Hon. Betty Amongi, in her remarks stated that the working age for Uganda is between 14 and 64 years, explaining that the labour law permits children to take some tasks. She went on to give other statistics concerning labour force in Uganda. “Labour force of Uganda should be 29.1 million Ugandans. Our workforce is made up of 39.2% of those being employees earning wages. 56.7% of those in labour force is in informal sector and vulnerable employment,” she said. Adding that, lack of sufficient formal job opportunity is leading to high rate of unemployment which stands at 12.3% according to Uganda Bureau of Statistics data. And that about 42. 2% are redundant doing nothing and there is possibility that these are the ones engaging in crimes to earn a living. The minister said that her ministry is doing a great job in improving working conditions for people working in the diaspora. She promised that through the available government programs, such as Emyooga, operation wealth creation, among others, they will be able to support Ugandans to come out of poverty.

Meanwhile, various individuals have come out to say something about this historical day. The Vice President of the Republic of Uganda, Hon.Jesca Alupo, thanked all hardworking individuals who make the world a better place, that their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment are the backbone of Uganda. The speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, thanked all men and women whose hard work, expertise, and dedication have shaped the civil service, armed forces, and informal sector. She said Uganda depends on their goodwill and that they are recognized for their contributions and patriotism. The national unity platform president, Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi, said that the absence of minimum wage bills has granted employers liberty to dictate how to pay their employees. The chairman of Namayiba Taxi Park, Faizo Lule, urged government to continue improving working conditions of people working in hazardous places like factories, etc. Also the director of Bamuyanja J. Auto garage, in mulago , Kampala, used the opportunity to appreciate all workers who try their level best to provide for their families despite of the challenges they work under. He also appealed to government to handle employers who terminate employees’ contracts without no genuine reason.