Government officials, labour experts and private sector leaders are set to converge in Kampala for the 4th Annual National Labour Convention and Expo 2026, as concerns grow over rising youth unemployment and the dominance of informal work.
The high-level meeting, organised by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, will take place from April 15 to 16 at the Kampala Serena Hotel under the theme: “Unlocking the Potential of Uganda’s Youth Labour Force: Advancing Productivity and Expanding Opportunities for Decent Work.”
State Minister for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations Esther Anyakun said the convention will provide a platform to align government policy with practical, on-the-ground solutions.
“Their collective engagement will align national policy direction with practical solutions, showcase scalable innovations, and generate concrete commitments to enhance labour productivity, youth employment, and inclusive growth,” she said.
The event, which forms part of preparations for International Labour Day, will be presided over by Vice President Jessica Alupo as chief guest.
Since its launch in 2023, officials say the Labour Convention has evolved into a key national platform for shaping Uganda’s employment agenda, bringing together government, employers, workers, academia and civil society.
“This year’s edition builds on previous conventions to advance Uganda’s progress toward the Tenfold Growth Strategy, Vision 2040, and NDP IV,” Anyakun said.
The urgency of the discussions reflects Uganda’s demographic realities. Government figures estimate the population at about 45.9 million people, with more than 75 percent under the age of 30. The working-age population accounts for roughly 57.4 percent.
Despite this youthful population, more than 80 percent of the labour force remains in the informal sector, where workers face low productivity, unstable incomes and limited social protection.
“Youth unemployment currently stands at 13.3%, while many remain underemployed or engaged in vulnerable work. Unlocking this potential is both an economic imperative and a pathway to long-term prosperity,” Anyakun said.
The convention will feature contributions from leading policymakers and experts, including Augustus Nuwagaba, who will address macroeconomic strategies for job creation, and Allen Kagina, expected to focus on skills development and vocational training.
Juliana Kaggwa will highlight employment opportunities in tourism, while Lucy Nakyobe is set to speak on improving coordination across government institutions.
Faith-based and civil society perspectives will also be represented by Grace Lubega, focusing on mindset change and entrepreneurship, while academic insights will be provided by Eria Hisali on structural labour market challenges.
Organisers say the invite-only event is designed to ensure focused, high-impact discussions, with proceedings to be broadcast live for public access.
As Uganda prepares for the convention, policymakers say the priority will be translating the country’s demographic advantage into meaningful employment opportunities, particularly for young people entering an increasingly competitive labour market.
