The Ugandan government has reported significant progress in bringing home its migrant workers who are stranded in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Hon. Esther Anyakun Davinia, the Minister of State for Labour, Employment, and Industrial Relations, announced that 146 Ugandans have been repatriated so far, including 54 young women who recently arrived aboard Air Arabia.
“I am happy to inform you that 146 Ugandans have so far been repatriated back home, the latest being 54 Ugandan girls who arrived this weekend aboard Air Arabia.” Anyakun said.
Key Developments:
- Saudi Arabia Pardon:A 90-day window has been established for Ugandan migrant workers to return home without facing penalties.
- UAE Amnesty:This amnesty will expire in December 2024, permitting Ugandans to return without penalties.
- Partnership with IOM:The International Organisation for Migration is providing counselling, rehabilitation, and reintegration services for returnees.
The government is encouraging all Ugandans living in the UAE to take advantage of this opportunity to return home without penalties.
Hon. Esther Anyakun Davinia emphasised Uganda’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of its migrant workers abroad through bilateral negotiations, repatriation, and reintegration initiatives.
This progress is a result of the Ministry’s collabouration with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, demonstrating Uganda’s commitment to protecting its citizens and improving labour externalisation standards.
Statistics:
- In 2021, Uganda’s migration report highlighted the importance of labour and services in ensuring the enjoyment of human rights.
- The National Labour Force Survey of 2021 reported a significant increase in rural-to-urban migration, with 76% of youth registered as migrants.
