Parliament has condemned the reported mandatory HIV/AIDS testing of workers at the Hoima Stadium, which is under construction in preparation for the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Chairperson of the House Committee on Health, Dr Joseph Ruyonga, told Parliament on Wednesday that the workers at Hoima Stadium were under pressure to test for HIV/AIDS or suffer contract termination.
He said that this was both unethical and degrading to the workers.
“The staff who have been found [HIV/AIDS] positive have been terminated and stigmatised, which is illegal as it contradicts Uganda labour laws and International human rights guidelines,” Ruyonga said during the plenary sitting chaired by Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, on Wednesday, 25 September 2024.
Uganda’s HIV/AIDS workplace policy provides that, “Information on the HIV status of a staff member shall not be required neither at the time of application for employment nor as a prerequisite in order to preserve the working relationship or for promotion”.
The same policy stipulates the manner in which employers should treat staff or workers with HIV/AIDS, which Ruyonga said were ignored by Hoima Stadium management.
Dr Joseph Ruyonga, the Chairperson of the Committee on Health presenting his statement on the forced HIV/AIDS testing.
He prayed that government intervenes to reinstate and compensate workers who were terminated on the basis of their HIV/AIDS status.
Ruyonga also noted the need to revitalize implementation of HIV/AIDS workplace policy and ensure continuous sensitization of employers and staff.
The Minister of State for Education and Sports (Primary Education), Hon. Joyce Moriku, pledged to inquire into the matter saying it will be a criminal case if the report is found true.
“It is sad to hear that there is compulsory testing of workers who are supporting construction of Hoima Stadium. In case it is true this is against labor laws. My ministry will follow up and take action,” she pledged.