The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has sounded the alarm over widespread exploitation and inhumane treatment of domestic workers, urging urgent government intervention to protect this vulnerable workforce.
In its 27th Annual Report on the State of Human Rights, the Commission revealed that domestic workers in Uganda routinely endure harsh working conditions, including excessively long hours typically between 12 to 16 hours per day with minimal or no rest.
The report also exposed alarming wage disparities, with many domestic workers earning far below the national minimum wage threshold.
Some, according to the UHRC, receive as little as 30,000 shillings per month, raising serious concerns about economic abuse and labor rights violations.
Responding to the findings, Bukomansimbi South MP Kayemba Solo and Bbale County MP Charles Tebandeke called on the government to establish and enforce a clear minimum wage for domestic workers.
“We can no longer turn a blind eye to the exploitation of domestic workers. These are Ugandans whose rights and dignity must be protected,” Kayemba said.
Tebandeke echoed the call, urging Parliament and relevant ministries to prioritize formal recognition and regulation of domestic labor.
The UHRC’s findings add to growing public concern over informal labor practices in Uganda, particularly in sectors that are largely unregulated. Advocates argue that formalizing domestic work with enforceable standards will not only protect workers but also improve labor conditions across the board.
As pressure mounts, stakeholders are calling for swift legislative action and stronger labor protections to safeguard the rights of domestic workers across the country.
By Francis Lubega
11th June 2025
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