The Ugandan government has introduced a new nationwide program aimed at better preparing workers who seek employment abroad. The program, led by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), focuses on ensuring that all migrant workers are properly trained and informed before they leave the country. This initiative marks a significant step in improving the safety and welfare of Ugandan workers who choose to work in other countries.
According to Victoria Vanny Nabiteeka, the national program officer for IOM, the pre-employment orientation program is crucial for ensuring that migrant workers have the knowledge and skills they need for safe migration. She emphasized that the program will help protect these workers from exploitation and ensure they meet the necessary standards for working abroad. The orientation will be conducted in collaboration with key government ministries such as the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
One of the primary goals of this program is to address the issue of unsafe migration practices, which have led to a rise in human trafficking cases in Uganda. In 2023, the government investigated more than 1,000 incidents of human trafficking. Many traffickers exploit vulnerable people, promising them work opportunities abroad but subjecting them to illegal and unsafe migration practices. The government hopes that this program will reduce these cases by promoting legal, safer routes for finding work overseas.
Ronnie Mugudani, secretary of the Uganda Association of External Recruitment Agencies, explained that poverty and unemployment are the main reasons why many Ugandans look for jobs abroad, even though it comes with risks. While working abroad can provide economic relief to families, it is essential to manage migration in a way that ensures the safety and dignity of the workers. Proper preparation through this program can make a significant difference in protecting workers from harm.
Migrant workers contribute significantly to Uganda’s economy through remittances. In 2023, they sent home a total of Shs900 billion, which supports many families across the country. These remittances are vital for improving living standards, but ensuring the safety of these workers while they are abroad is equally important.
This new program also aims to educate potential migrant workers about their rights and the legal requirements for working abroad. By informing them about the risks of illegal migration, the government hopes to reduce the number of people falling victim to trafficking and unsafe working conditions. This is part of a larger effort to protect Uganda’s citizens as they seek better job opportunities outside the country.
Overall, the government’s new initiative, in partnership with IOM, seeks to create a safer, more regulated environment for Ugandan migrant workers. By promoting legal migration routes and providing essential training, the program will not only protect workers but also support their families and contribute to Uganda’s economy in a sustainable way.