Ugandan authorities have announced a raft of service delivery reforms for migrant workers in Qatar, including plans for a passport machine, a biometric registration kit and a government call centre, during the 2025 Uganda–Qatar Diaspora Convention hosted in Doha.
Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs Muhammad Bagonza said the initiatives aim to reduce costly and time-consuming documentation challenges faced by Ugandans abroad.
He noted that diaspora remittances have surpassed Shs 6.5 trillion annually, with Gulf countries contributing up to 40%, making service access a national priority.
The Embassy said the measures will be supported by a proposed Diaspora Law and a Diaspora App, intended to streamline communication and offer easier access to government services.
Bagonza added that the State House Diaspora Unit is reviewing high Interpol fees, money transfer charges, telecom costs and driving permit complications that continue to burden migrant workers.
The convention followed a three-day training programme for embassy staff and community leaders facilitated by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
Embassy officials also conducted field visits to accommodation facilities and met more than 110 Ugandans employed by Mowasalat (Karwa) to gather firsthand welfare concerns.
Uganda’s Deputy Head of Mission in Qatar, Amb. Dr Mohammed Baswari Kezaala, said the country’s positive reputation among Qatari employers was a result of discipline and unity within the community.
He highlighted improved bilateral relations, including the recent opening of Qatar’s embassy in Kampala, and urged Ugandans to prioritise skills growth and responsible financial practices.
Community leaders raised recurring grievances such as mobile money fraud, recruitment agency overpricing, limited financial literacy, expensive telecom services and inadequate banking linkages between the two countries.
Officials reiterated that diaspora voting is legally provided for and will be implemented.
The programme also included a cancer awareness initiative and cultural performances.
Embassy officials said continuous engagement and targeted reforms will be central to improving welfare and service delivery for Ugandans living and working in Qatar.