In a press statement released on Wednesday at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, Hon. Betty Amongi Ongom, the Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, unveiled preparations ahead of the upcoming International Labour Day, set to be commemorated on May 1, 2024.
This year’s theme, “Improving Access to Labour Justice: A Prerequisite for Increased Productivity,” focuses on the role of fair access to labor justice and occupational safety and health in fostering a just and equitable labor market.
Minister Amongi revealed that the national celebrations for International Labour Day will be hosted at Mukabura Grounds – St. Leo’s College, Fort Portal City, with His Excellency, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa, expected to preside over the event.
Recognizing the invaluable contributions of workers to national development, Minister Amongi said the government is dedicated to addressing pressing issues hindering worker rights and safety across Uganda.
“Workers are the backbone of our nation, and it is imperative that we ensure their rights and safety are upheld,” Minister Amongi declared
Ahead of the celebrations, the government will undertake proactive measures to foster better working conditions for workers, including the second Annual National Labour Convention and Expo, workplace inspections, tree-planting initiatives, and awareness campaigns.
Amongi acknowledged challenges such as unfair dismissals, withheld wages, perilous work conditions, and insufficient social security measures, emphasizing the urgent need for redress.
She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combatting these challenges through legislative and policy interventions, citing key enactments such as the National Employment Act, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and the Labour Disputes (Arbitration and Settlement) Act as pivotal instruments.
“Our efforts to enhance workplace safety are bearing fruit, but there is still much work to be done,” she remarked.
She further unveiled milestones achieved by her ministry in bolstering occupational safety and health standards, including the presentation of the OSH (Amendment) Bill, 2023 to Parliament and the deployment of the Occupational Safety and Health Management Information Systems (OSHMIS).
Acknowledging persisting risks faced by workers, Amongi stressed the imperative of remaining vigilant in identifying and mitigating emerging occupational hazards.
She called on all Ugandans to join in honoring the invaluable contributions of workers and championing their welfare during the International Labour Day festivities in Fort Portal City on May 1, 2024, and the World Day for Safety and Health at Work at Mbale Cricket Grounds on April 26, 2024.
The theme for the World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2024, “Impacts of Climate Change on Occupational Safety and Health – Uganda’s Response,” highlights the intersection of environmental challenges with workplace safety.
She mentioned that the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development has undertaken various initiatives to enhance occupational safety and health, including workplace inspections, legislative reforms, and training programs for first responders.
Despite these efforts, Amongi acknowledged the ongoing risks faced by workers and emphasized the need for continued vigilance.
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