The Ugandan government and human rights organisations operating in Gulf states have reaffirmed their commitment to improving the welfare of Ugandan migrant workers, many of whom continue to face distressing conditions abroad.
The pledge followed a high-level meeting between Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Abbey Walusimbi, and representatives from Set Captives Free and Rain Collective—organisations that have worked for over a decade to defend the rights of Ugandan migrants in countries such as Jordan, Syria, and Iraq.
According to Walusimbi, over 1,000 Ugandan migrant workers remain detained across the Middle East, with accusations ranging from theft and contract substitution to human trafficking.
Saudi Arabia alone is holding 720 Ugandans, while Dubai has 180 and Qatar 62.
Negotiations are underway between the Ugandan government and its Gulf counterparts to facilitate their repatriation.
Walusimbi emphasised that addressing the plight of migrant workers requires more than isolated rescue missions.
“A multifaceted approach is needed, including stronger legal protection mechanisms, tackling the root causes of irregular migration, and establishing safe, legal pathways for work abroad,” he said.
He also called for better access to healthcare, communication with families, and human rights safeguards for workers already in host countries.
The meeting involved detailed discussions on improving labour migration governance, with key proposals including strengthening information management systems, enhancing reintegration support for returnees, and refining national policies governing labour export.
“Uganda has made notable progress in creating an enabling environment for labour migration, but more needs to be done to ensure that migrant workers are better protected and supported, both at home and abroad,” Walusimbi noted.
Participants also urged the establishment of a Technical Working Group (TWG) comprising representatives from government, recruitment agencies, employers, and trade unions.
The TWG would be tasked with assessing the progress of current migration initiatives, identifying persistent challenges, and coordinating future strategies for migrant welfare.
Walusimbi stressed that President Yoweri Museveni's administration is determined to strengthen coordination among stakeholders.
“With this partnership, we shall assess the progress of existing initiatives, address challenges, and explore future strategies to guarantee better protection and support for our migrant workers,” he said.
While much of the current focus has been on pre-departure preparation—such as training and policy reform—experts noted that reintegration of returnees remains underdeveloped.
Stakeholders agreed that a holistic approach must include support for returning migrants to reintegrate into society and access opportunities back home.