President Museveni has issued a strong rebuke to companies hiring foreign labour in areas where Ugandans are well-qualified, calling it an unjustified practice that undermines the country’s workforce.
The President made the remarks during this year’s International Labour Day (ILD) celebrations held at Nakaale Grounds in Nakapiripirit District.
“Why should foreign companies bring their own workers when Ugandans can do the jobs?” President Museveni asked, warning that the government would begin scrutinizing institutions that consistently overlook local talent in favour of foreign labour.
His comments come at a time when the country is grappling with youth unemployment and widespread concerns over exploitative labour practices.
President Museveni emphasized that the government is now looking seriously at reforming the labour sector, including enforcing stricter oversight of employment agencies and reviewing the casual labour system.
“We shall discuss more in June in the Cabinet. We are also going to look into employment agencies that exploit workers by standing between them and employers,” he noted, pointing to a broader reform agenda that includes the establishment of a minimum wage.
While the official theme of this year’s celebrations was “Consolidating on the Gains of the Parish Development Model (PDM) for Increased Productivity and Inclusive Job Creation”, the President’s speech was defined by a strong focus on reclaiming opportunities for Ugandan workers.
Museveni criticized the preference for foreign labour in sectors where local skills are available, framing it as both an economic and patriotic failure. He urged Ugandans, especially those in the labour force, to embrace Pan-Africanism and unity in building an internal market.
“Factories and jobs mean nothing without a market. That’s why you must love Uganda, love Africa. Our internal market isn’t enough. We need East Africa and beyond,” he said.
The President also made it clear that job creation must be rooted in wealth creation. He stressed that wealth is the foundation upon which sustainable employment can be built whether through government initiatives or private enterprise.
“In Fort Portal, a man called Nyakana started making animal feeds on 1.2 acres. He now employs 15 people. Another, here in Nakapiripirit, used PDM money to grow green grams, sold them, and bought pigs. Now he has 35 pigs and is self-employed,” Museveni shared.
He further reiterated that Uganda’s development will rely on strategic investments aimed at empowering local wealth creators, including affordable credit, better infrastructure, and reduced production costs.
“That is why we are investing in low-cost electricity, better transport like railways, affordable credit through UDB and PDM, and cheaper internet, all to support wealth creators,” he said.
The President concluded by congratulating workers and calling on them to join hands in building a self-reliant and prosperous Uganda where local talent is not only recognized but prioritized.
