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Uganda has reaffirmed its dedication to promoting decent work, social justice, and economic growth with the launch of the Third Decent Work Country Programme. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Gender, Labour, and Social Development Minister Betty Amongi pledged to ensure the programme is implemented, monitored, and evaluated in a way that meets the needs of all Ugandans, in line with national and international development goals.

The Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Betty Amongi, has pledged the government’s full commitment to the regular implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the Third Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP) in a manner responsive to the needs of all Ugandans.

Speaking during the signing ceremony held at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, Amongi emphasized that the government recognizes the crucial role social and economic development plays in shaping the nation’s future. She noted that the third DWCP marks a renewed national commitment to fostering decent work, social justice, and sustainable economic growth.

“The programme provides Uganda’s tripartite-plus partners with a unique opportunity to promote decent work as a core component of the country’s national development strategy through an integrated and collaborative framework,” she said.

Amongi stressed that collaboration among government bodies, employers’ and workers’ organizations, and other stakeholders is vital for creating a more inclusive and sustainable development path that benefits all sectors of society.

She further highlighted that the programme’s three strategic priorities—shared prosperity within a healthy environment, human wellbeing and resilience, and strengthening social dialogue and tripartism—align closely with national, regional, and global frameworks, including the Ministry’s Strategic Plan and the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Manifesto (2021–2026).

“By working together, we can build a more prosperous and equitable society where every Ugandan enjoys access to decent work and a dignified life,” Amongi said.

Closing the convention, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa emphasized the importance of this year’s convention theme: “Strengthening Compliance to Employment Law: A Prerequisite for Decent Jobs, Economic Empowerment, and Inclusive Growth.”

Tayebwa called on workers and employers to prioritize compliance with employment laws, protect workers’ rights, and contribute to building a prosperous, inclusive Uganda.

He pointed out that Parliament plays a vital role in strengthening compliance through its legislative and oversight mandates—updating labour laws to meet international standards and ensuring their effective enforcement.

Several landmark pieces of legislation in labour and employment have already been enacted, reflecting the Ministry’s strong commitment to advancing workers’ rights and welfare, he added, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Minister Amongi.