A section of Airtel Internet and Home Broadband installers in Uganda have raised concerns over alleged salary reductions, delayed payments, and unsafe working conditions, claiming the situation has persisted for several months.
According to information shared by affected workers in internal discussions, the installers, many of whom operate under outsourced contracts, say they are struggling to survive after their earnings were reportedly reduced despite demanding fieldwork and strict performance targets.
The workers claim that field engineers responsible for installing internet and broadband devices were previously earning better commissions and facilitation allowances, but their pay has allegedly been slashed over time. Some installers allege that they are now receiving far less than expected despite working long hours in the field.
The affected workers also claim they are required to meet daily and monthly installation targets under difficult conditions, including transport challenges, fuel costs, and pressure from supervisors. Some described the work environment as stressful and discouraging, especially for employees supporting families.
In addition to salary concerns, the installers allege that they operate in risky conditions without adequate protective equipment. The workers claim they frequently climb electricity poles and work at dangerous heights while installing internet cables and devices, yet many lack essential safety gear such as protective shoes, reflector jackets, safety clips, helmets, and other necessary tools.
Some workers further alleged that they are forced to personally hire or purchase equipment such as splicing machines needed for fibre installations, increasing their financial burden despite low earnings.
The workers say the complaints have gone on for nearly eight months without clear intervention, with some now demanding action from management and relevant labour authorities.
Airtel internet and Home Broadband installers are reportedly recruited through outsourcing arrangements handled by Q-Sourcing Servtec and True North Consult Ltd, companies said to be responsible for recruiting and managing outsourced Airtel field workers across Uganda.
Efforts to obtain a comment from the companies were unsuccessful. Calls made to Q-Sourcing Servtec Human Resource official Atuhairwe Ryan went unanswered by press time.
The affected workers are now calling for a review of their contracts, improved salaries, provision of safety gear, and better working conditions, warning that continued neglect could affect morale and service delivery.
