President Yoweri Museveni has laid blame on the citizens’ attitude and lack of vision as the primary culprits behind the country’s unemployment issues, rather than the scarcity of jobs itself.
Speaking during the International Labour Day celebrations on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at Mukabura Grounds in Fort Portal City, President Museveni challenged the prevailing notion of job scarcity and emphasized the need for a shift in mindset among Ugandans.
International Labour Day, also known as May Day, serves as a global acknowledgment of the contributions and achievements of workers, while also advocating for workers’ rights and opportunities.
This year’s celebrations, held under the theme “Improving Access to Labour Justice, A Prerequisite for Increased Productivity,” aimed to underscore the importance of equitable access to legal recourse for workers.
President Museveni highlighted his consistent advocacy for wealth creation since 1996, particularly through commercial agriculture. He stressed that if Ugandans adhered to this message diligently, the issue of unemployment would not persist.
In his address, President Museveni outlined a model for agricultural wealth creation, urging citizens to utilize arable land effectively. He cited the success story of Richard Nyakana, a model farmer, who generates significant income from dairy and poultry farming, showcasing the potential within the agricultural sector.
The President directed his advice towards labour union leaders, urging them to prioritize wealth creation initiatives over solely advocating for job creation. He emphasized that jobs stem from wealth and underscored the importance of intensive and extensive agriculture for rural economic development.
Regarding the tea crisis in the Tooro sub-region, President Museveni reiterated his reservations about tea as a high-value crop, citing its inherent issues. He emphasized his long-standing recommendation of crops such as coffee, fruits, dairy, and poultry farming for sustainable agricultural growth.
In addressing systemic challenges, President Museveni advocated for increased funding for the Uganda Development Bank (UDB) to provide low-interest loans to manufacturers, thus stimulating economic growth.
Furthermore, he pledged to address market corruption, vowing to investigate and remove individuals who exploit market facilities, thereby disadvantaging the poor.
The event also witnessed the recognition of 53 distinguished Ugandans for their contributions to workers’ rights and welfare.
Labour state minister Esther Davinia Anyakun highlighted the government’s initiatives to combat unemployment, including the GROW project and apprenticeship schemes. She also emphasized the importance of the Uganda National Employment Strategy, aimed at addressing labor force challenges.
Ambassador of Belgium to Uganda, Hugues Chantry, acknowledged Uganda’s efforts in labor protection while urging further improvements, particularly in wage fairness and dismissal procedures.
Musa Okello, chairperson of the National Organisation of Trade Unions, advocated for enhanced access to labor justice to promote productivity and economic growth, expressing gratitude for President Museveni’s efforts in maintaining peace and facilitating investment.
The event, attended by dignitaries including Vice-President Jessica Alupo and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, served as a platform to address critical issues affecting Uganda’s workforce and economy.
