President Museveni has directed Vice President Jessica Alupo to probe individuals who took over markets that were meant for low-income earners.
The President made the remarks Wednesday, May 1, 2024, during the International Labour Day celebrations held at Mukabura Grounds, Fort Portal City.
According to him, the markets have been heinously taken over by the greedy rich people but they are going to investigate the matter and kick out the culprits from the facilities.
“The markets which we built have been taken over by the parasites and displaced the poor people. We are going to chase those corrupt people who use their powers to frustrate the poor people.”
President Museveni also reiterated that he will meet the traders on 7th May 2024 to discuss their challenges.
“I’m also looking forward to meeting the labour leaders. Therefore, I advise the Labour unions to prioritize creating avenues for wealth creation when advocating for jobs. Jobs come from wealth, you cannot have jobs without wealth.”
The Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, Hon. Esther Davinia Anyakun, on behalf of the Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi, commended President Museveni for always sparing time to attend the Labour Day celebrations, explaining that the gesture demonstrates his commitment towards the welfare of workers in Uganda.
She also noted that the Ministry acknowledges the challenges of unemployment among Ugandans, and it has numerous initiatives set in place to deal with the issue.
She highlighted the GROW project, the apprenticeship scheme to skill the youth to embark on entrepreneurial journeys, and labour externalisation, among other initiatives.
The Minister also said the Ministry has come up with the Uganda National Employment Strategy which diagnoses the challenges of the labour force in the country, and it will be taken to Cabinet for approval.
“I wish to extend my appreciation to our social partners for your work towards promoting social and labour justice,” she added.
The Ambassador of Belgium to Uganda, H.E Hugues Chantry thanked the Government of Uganda for putting in place a legal framework aimed at protecting the workers in the country.
He however raised concern over the numerous challenges that are still faced by the workers at their workplaces such as unfair wages, and unfair dismissals, among others.
“The government of Belgium has been standing by the people of Uganda to improve the standards at the working places,” H.E Chantry.
Mr. Musa Okello, the Chairman General of National Organisation of Trade Unions (NOTU) called for improved access to labour justice to promote labour productivity and economic growth.
He also appreciated President Museveni for the guaranteed peace and security in the country that has facilitated investment, thus promoting employment.
“Workers of Uganda are really grateful to you and your government for the various favourable labour laws,” he noted.
Mr. Okello also lauded President Museveni for the affirmative action that has enabled the special interest groups to compete favourably in the field of work.
The Chairperson of the Federation of Uganda Employers, Eng. Silver Mugisha thanked his fellow employers for creating jobs for Ugandans, a factor that has enabled the latter to sustain and improve their livelihoods.
“Employers play a pivotal role in the socio-economic transformation of our country,” Eng. Mugisha said.
“Your Excellency, we appreciate you for being a good listener. You always listen to our concerns,” he added.
Eng. Mugisha also thanked President Museveni for setting up the State House Investors Protection Unit and the CEO Forum, saying that the move clearly demonstrates the President’s resolve to fight corruption and accelerate investment in the country.
The event was also attended by the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, the NRM 1st National Vice Chairperson, Al Hajji Moses Kigongo, Ministers, Members of Parliament, and Members of the Diplomatic Corps, among others.
