As the world commemorates International Labour Day (May 1), workers across the globe amplify calls to respect their rights.
The day is also commemorated to appreciate workers’ contributions to national development, raise national and international consciousness about the importance of promoting and protecting workers’ rights, and reflect on the gains, challenges, and opportunities for improving workers’ welfare, safety, and health at work, among other issues.
This year’s national celebrations for International Labour Day in Uganda, are being held at Mukabura Grounds – St. Leo’s College, Fort Portal City, under the theme, “Improving Access to Labour Justice: A Prerequisite for Increased Productivity”.
The theme resonates with the fact that access to labor justice and the promotion of occupational safety and health are fundamental human rights, essential for maintaining a fair and equitable labor market, protecting workers from exploitation and unfair treatment, and promoting compliance with labor laws.
In Uganda, one of the companies with a massive number of companies and employees is the Tian Tang group, which also operates the Sino-Mbale Industrial Park in Mbale City.
Lubwama Daniel, the Production Supervisor at General Wares, one of the companies in the Sino-Mbale Industrial Park, noted that the day is significant for workers. He highlighted that it provides time to reflect on their rights and demand for better conditions.
Lubwama added that at General Wares, makers of Soft Care products, they have implemented safety precautions to safeguard their employees.
“We provide safety gadgets, gloves for hand packers, headgear, and other tools for the production team. With over 100 staff members, the company also provides meals, bonuses, and salaries based on performance,” he stated.
“The least amount paid to a worker here is around Shs 400,000. We strive to ensure that our employees receive the best.”
Geofrey Ogwang, a supervisor and production manager at Blackark Electronics, emphasized the importance of worker safety and welfare at the company.
“In case of any problems in our production, we have mechanisms in place to solve them. If I can’t handle the problem, I escalate it to my bosses or the park’s management. Here, we prioritize worker welfare,” he explained.
He noted that the company not only provides healthcare and work bonuses but also ensures enrollment in NSSF, among other benefits.
“At the end of the month, you’ll find some deposits in your account. Our healthcare is taken care of,” he added.
Apio Mildred, a casual laborer at the factory, mentioned that since joining the company, she has been able to take care of her family, buy a plot, and improve her welfare.
According to Mariam Lydia Kyalikoba, the Human Resource Manager at Mbale Industrial Park, the management is focused on promoting a decent working environment. She stated that they follow and enforce the labor laws of Uganda.
“We try to follow at least 90% of the employment laws of Uganda. You’ve probably noticed most of the employees in the park wearing uniforms and safety gear. The factories are also properly guarded and equipped with hydrants and extinguishers in case of fire. So, regarding safety, we are on point,” she remarked.
On her part, the Minister for Gender Labor and Social Development, Betty Amongi, emphasized the importance of workers having access to fair and effective mechanisms for resolving disputes and grievances in the workplace.
She noted that access to labor justice remains a challenge for many workers.
“The obstacles our workers face in accessing labor justice are diverse. However, through collaborative efforts and steadfast determination, we are committed to addressing these issues and paving the way for a brighter future,” she stated.
She called for acknowledgment of the obstacles preventing workers from seeking redress for disputes in the workplace and proposed sustainable solutions.
Amongi highlighted that the Government has made significant strides towards putting in place an enabling legal and policy framework for handling labor complaints and disputes to improve access to labor justice. The laws provide a framework for addressing disputes, including prevention and control.
According to Kenneth Mushemeza, the PRO of Sino Uganda Mbale industrial park, the park boasts 48 companies, with 28 currently active, producing 67 products. The remaining 20 companies are setting up and constructing their structures.
He noted that there are over 6000 employees, with over 90% being local employees and 10% international employees.
He also mentioned that the park aims to employ over 20000 people from the local communities.