As the number of Ugandans going to the Diaspora in search for jobs tremendously soars, the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development has urged young people to first look out for jobs in Uganda before choosing to go abroad.
Frank Tumwebaze, the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development addressed the issue this morning while appearing on national television and he emphasized the need for Ugandans to use the right channels when they want to go abroad, cautioning Ugandans on illegal migration.
“Before we allow a labour export company to take Ugandans for work, we have a role to make sure that the jobs promised are actually there. That is why the process is slow but we are working to improve that.” Said Tumwebaze.
He emphasized that things such as how much money should be paid if someone is to go abroad for work and how much one should pay for certain documents should be made public as it will go a long way in reducing corruption and overcharging.
The Minister also expressed his stance on the issue as he found labour exportation unnecessary, citing availability of jobs in Uganda.
“There are jobs here, factories in Namanve are full of youths, we have a thriving boda boda industry, but labour migration will always be there. It is not only unique to Uganda,” added Tumwebaze.
Currently, the number of Ugandans in the Middle East is estimated to be around 150,000, but reports of harsh treatment and death have been on the rise in recent years. This has not stopped Ugandans from going there though in search of greener pastures.