The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development has convened a national dialogue aimed at promoting safe, respectful, and survivor-centred workplaces as part of efforts to prevent and respond to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Held under the theme, “Strengthening Institutional Mechanisms to Prevent and Respond to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence,” the engagement brings together technical representatives from private sector institutions and regulatory bodies to discuss practical workplace interventions.
According to organisers, the dialogue focuses on strengthening institutional systems that can effectively prevent violence and harassment at work, while also improving reporting, accountability, and survivor-centred response mechanisms.
Participants are expected to generate actionable recommendations that companies and regulators can integrate into workplace policies, particularly in relation to safeguarding employees and improving institutional response frameworks.
The discussions come amid ongoing concerns about workplace safety, especially for young workers and vulnerable groups who are more exposed to harassment and abuse in some employment settings.
While Uganda lacks comprehensive national data on workplace violence, available studies and global estimates indicate that the problem is widespread.
Research by the International Labour Organisation shows that more than one in five workers globally have experienced some form of violence or harassment at work, with women disproportionately affected.
Stakeholders at the dialogue emphasised the need for stronger enforcement mechanisms, improved awareness, and clearer reporting structures to ensure cases of workplace violence are addressed promptly and effectively.
They also highlighted the importance of aligning Uganda’s workplace standards with international labour conventions, while closing gaps in implementation across both public and private institutions.
Organisers said the outcomes of the dialogue will inform future policy reforms and workplace guidelines aimed at creating safer, more inclusive working environments nationwide.