The government has expressed readiness to present a paper about the minimum wage, saying it is a key step toward improving workers’ pay in Uganda.
The minister of State for Labour, Esther Anyakun, said the move follows a directive by President Museveni during last year’s International Labour Day celebrations, urging Parliament to recall and reconsider the bill.
“We are glad that the president guided Parliament to bring back the Minimum Wage Bill for further discussion and eventual passing. This is aimed at addressing workers’ pay and improving salaries,”Anyakun said.
Uganda continues to grapple with low pay, especially among young workers, many of whom are employed in informal and poorly regulated sectors.
Anyakun made the remarks while announcing the upcoming National Labour Convention and Expo, which will take place from the 15th to the 16th of April at Kampala Serena Hotel.
The two-day event will be held under the theme: “Unlocking the potential of Uganda’s youthful labour force and advancing productivity through expanded opportunities for decent work.”
The convention is part of activities leading up to the International Labour Day celebrations.
According to Anyakun, the conference will bring together key stakeholders to discuss challenges affecting youth employment and propose practical solutions.
She said one of the main objectives is to identify and address policy and institutional barriers that limit young people’s access to decent work.
The convention will also examine how Uganda’s youth can be better positioned as a driver of productivity and economic growth.
Uganda’s population is estimated at about 45.7 million people, with approximately 75% below the age of 30.
However, the government acknowledges that youth unemployment stands at about 13.3%, posing a significant challenge to national development.
To tackle this issue, Anyakun said the government is focusing on equipping young people with practical skills that match market demands.
She added that efforts are also underway to attract more investors into the country to create employment opportunities.
