The Federation of All Uganda Migrant Workers Associations (Fauma) has approached the Ugandan government regarding what it describes as "widespread mistreatment, abuse, and neglect" of Ugandan migrant workers, both within the country and overseas.
A petition dated August 4, which was officially received by the Office of the President and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development on September 30, states that Fauma blames the government for neglecting vulnerable workers stuck in foreign countries, not dealing with increasing instances of human trafficking, and overlooking the rising number of Ugandans who have died while working abroad.
The federation is calling for the creation of a specific fund for migrant workers, a structured monitoring system, and thorough reintegration initiatives for those returning.
It is also calling on the government to establish legal groups at Ugandan embassies to help workers obtain justice if they are jailed or mistreated overseas.
"The petition mentions that we keep encountering instances of Ugandans being tortured, made to work longer hours, not paid their wages, and stopped from going back to their homes," it says.
Numerous individuals have lost their lives and been interred in foreign nations without facing consequences.
Fauma claims that Uganda's existing system, which consists of several regulations introduced since 2005, is "severely insufficient" in safeguarding individuals looking for work overseas.
The group points out that multiple labor outsourcing bills introduced since 2019 have not been enacted, resulting in workers being at risk.
As per the federation, human trafficking is "surging" both within and beyond borders, with victims being taken to nations such as Egypt, Syria, Myanmar, Thailand, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and South Africa.
Numerous individuals are mentioned as being trapped in foreign jails without legal support.
"Ugandan migrant laborers are experiencing widespread abuse, delayed wages, seizure of their documents, and prejudice. They are detained on false accusations without any legal recourse, while their loved ones back home are kept in ignorance," Fauma cautioned.
The federation also highlighted the loss of reputation, noting that ongoing exploitation overseas has decreased the worldwide demand for Ugandan workers and negatively impacted the nation's international standing.
In its application, Fauma outlined 11 main measures it seeks to be put into effect, including:
- A straightforward report on advancements in establishing a thorough law regarding externalized labor.
- Immediate return and release of workers who are stuck or detained overseas.
- Extensive preparation and pre-travel briefing for every migrant.
- Creation of migrant worker offices within Ugandan embassies, manned by labor attachés and legal professionals.
- Implementation of ongoing bilateral labor agreements with Qatar, Jordan, and the UAE, along with the extension of these agreements to Europe and the Americas.
- A successful reintegration program for returnees and the involvement of Fauma in decision-making processes.
- A country-wide initiative focused on secure and compassionate labor migration to fight against human trafficking.
Highlighting an escalating situation, Fauma mentioned that Uganda is among the top countries in Africa sending workers abroad, with thousands of young individuals departing annually in search of employment opportunities in the Middle East, Asia, and other regions.
Although remittances play a major role in the national economy, instances of misuse have increased over time.
Non-governmental organisations and advocacy groups have repeatedly condemned the government for placing greater emphasis on remittance earnings than on the well-being of its people.
Over the past few months, multiple families have come forward regarding relatives who passed away under unclear conditions in foreign countries, receiving minimal details in return.
No official statement had been issued by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development or the President's Office as of the deadline for publication.
FAUMA maintains that immediate discussion is essential. "The approaches we suggest will not only safeguard Ugandan migrant laborers but also encourage collaboration at both national and global levels," the petition states.
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Tagged: Uganda, Migration, Labour, East Africa, Economy, Business and Finance
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