“Lack of jobs in Uganda linked to lack of vision, President Museveni says”.
While speaking at the International Labour Day celebrations at Mukabura Boma Grounds in Fortportal city, President Museveni highlighted that the major obstacle to finding employment for many Ugandans is a lack of vision.
He emphasized that securing employment depends on developing a clear vision for one’s future and taking advantage of growth opportunities through different means such as agriculture production.
“Dont tell me about lack of jobs, talk about lack of vision, countries which have no jobs are countries which are poor, Uganda is not poor, the problem in Uganda is lack of vision,” President Museveni emphasized.
The President emphasized that people with vision can create job opportunities through strategic wealth creation initiatives, refuting the myth that there are no jobs in the country.
He continued by advising against looking for work abroad, saying that “all those children going to work for the Arabs, they shouldn’t go there, what are they going to do to work for the Arabs”.
President Museveni also expressed worries regarding the unequal domination of markets by the affluent, which leads to the displacement of the less privileged individuals for whom the markets were originally established for. He urged for the implementation of permanent labor arrangements to replace casual practices, aiming to provide workers with enhanced stability and security.
The President’s echoed a plea for proactive vision-building, self-reliance, and inclusive economic policies to empower people and foster a more equitable and prosperous society.
President Museveni commended 40-year-old Richard Nyakana of Rwengaju village in Kabarole district for his profitable farming endeavor on a one-acre plot at Kana Farm, which is located 4km from Fort Portal town. Nyakana was praised for his extraordinary commitment and ability to use his small plot of land to produce a substantial income.
As an exemplary example of a farmer who has successfully applied the four-acre model to engage in commercial agriculture, the President praised Nyakana for demonstrating the transformative power of small-scale farming in battling poverty and promoting economic empowerment while employing other Ugandans.
According to President Museveni, Nyakana’s story is an inspiration and a testament to the potential for innovation and success in agriculture, showing that even a small plot of land can be turned into a thriving business with a sizable economic impact with hard work, determination, and strategic planning.
Hon. Anyakun Esther Davinia, Minister of State for Gender, Labor, and Social Development (Labor, Employment, and Industrial Relations) emphasized the government’s dedication to guaranteeing each and every worker fair and equal access to labor justice. She also discussed the importance of strong systems to uphold workers’ rights and foster a positive work environment.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, and speakers from trade unions, employers’ associations, and civil society organizations led thought-provoking discussions that emphasized the vital connection between social stability, productivity, and labor justice.
The commandant of the Senior Command and Staff College, Kimaka, Maj. Gen. George Igumba, presented medals to sixty deserving citizens in recognition of their noteworthy contributions to the nation’s advancement.
The International Labour Day celebration in Fort Portal City provided a valuable platform for dialogue, reflection, and advocacy on the crucial role of labor justice in driving economic growth and enhancing social well-being.
