Labour MOU with UAE aims to regulate export of workers, put in place safeguards

Uganda has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the government of United Arab Emirates in the field of manpower and domestic  worker protocol to ensure safe orderly and regular migration to the United Arab Emirates. 

Speaking after the signing of the MOU between the two governments, the Hon. Minister for Gender Janat Mukwaya said they have exchanged number of versions of this MOU on labour matters. 

The minister noted that, “I am very happy that we have text that reflects our mutual expectations.” 

 Mukwaya explained that the MOU means that Ugandans can look forward to a situation where exorbitant middlemen charges can be eliminated. She said, "For us in Uganda we look forward to a situation where such charges are eliminated for all categories of workers.  We are glad that article 5 of the MOU is clear on that, by ensuring that the employer incurs all recruitment fees and that none shall be levied on the worker." 

She went on to say that, "The MOU provides for established formal structures through which any grievances can amicably be handled. For us at this stage we are glad to sign a general workers agreement which has been cleared by the Ministry of Justice and Constitution Affairs.”

Mukwaya revealed that the ministry will also set up a joint committee within three months which will put the MOU into operation to take periodic reviews and assessment and monitoring of implementation of the provision of this MOU.

The committee will also make necessary recommendations to resolve any disputes arising from the implementation of the provisions of this MOU or amendments to this MOU as may be necessary.