As the premier voice of Employers on social and economic issues in Uganda, we participated in the International Labour Day (ILD) celebrations presided over by H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the President of the Republic of Uganda. The ILD 2026 celebrations were convened at Nkoyoyo Boarding Primary School, Matale Grounds in Buikwe District under the theme, ‘Safeguarding Uganda’s Progress: Empowering the Workforce and Promoting Decent Work for Competitive Enterprises’. The Vice President, Cabinet Ministers, Members of Parliament, religious leaders and international dignitaries were present.
In his address, President Museveni reiterated that wealth creation is the most sustainable pathway to national transformation. He emphasised the need to align skills with existing market demands to improve household incomes and productivity. The President further shared that Uganda’s peace and stability should be used as economic levers to advance sustainable development.
Our Chairperson, Mr. Fred Bamwesigye commended the government for the Public Service Pension Fund and the launch of the Third Decent Work Country Program. He applauded the President for assenting the Employment (Amendment) Act 2025 into law. Furthermore, Mr. Bamwesigye highlighted the benefits of the Parish Development Model (PDM) that has improved livelihoods and boosted wealth creation initiatives.
Congratulations to our Vice Chairperson, Ms. Mona Ssebuliba and Governing Council Member, Mr. Simon Harvey who received the Diamond Jubilee medal for their contribution to socio-economic transformation at national level. Over 50 individuals were awarded medals for their outstanding service.
The ILD 2026 celebrations were preceded by the Employers’ Conference for Buikwe district presided over by Hon. Esther Anyakun, the Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations as well as an informative webinar to discuss employer competitiveness with Our CEO, Mr. Douglas Opio as a panelist. Hon. Anyakun encouraged Employers to prioritise safety and health because business growth shouldn’t be an occupational hazard. Our CEO emphasised the importance of continuous engagement between Employers and government because dialogue is key in improving the business environment.
As we look forward to attaining Vision 2040, Employers are at the forefront of fostering workforce productivity, upholding decent work standards in addition to investing in skilling and apprenticeship programs.
Onwards and Upwards in strengthening the Employers fraternity!
