STELLA T
As Ugandans prepare to commemorate National Labour Day on Thursday, 1st May 2025, citizens have voiced their aspirations for better working conditions and a minimum wage to ensure fair compensation for their hard work.
Agaba Emmy Rubondo, the chairperson of LCIII Buyanja, has emphasized the need to rework labor conditions to guarantee workers’ well-being.
He said May Day is commemorated to appreciate the contribution of workers to national development, raise consciousness on promoting and protecting workers’ rights, and reflect on improving workers’ welfare.
Rubondo, however, stated that although they are hard workers, there is a need to rework the conditions of their work to establish a minimum wage. Workers should benefit adequately from their contributions.
He said this resonates with fundamental human rights. He addressed challenges faced by workers, including unfair salary inequalities, dismissals, and unsafe working conditions, stressing the need for collaborative efforts to pave the way for a brighter future.
Gidion Turyamubugana, Councillor Kanyinya Ward, Southern Division, Rukungiri Municipality, stressed that the government has not made significant strides toward putting in place an enabling legal and policy framework for handling labor complaints and disputes to improve access to labor justice.
He noted that unequal wages, salaries, and unemployment among workers also hinder their workability.
However, Wednesday Twinomujuni, the Chairperson of LCIII Nyakishenyi Sub-county, lamented that the government has improved the health status, housing, schooling, and overall well-being of workers.
Twinomujuni’s statement reflects a call to action to improve labour justice and safety, emphasizing the importance of protecting workers’ rights and well-being.
