By Witness Radio team.
The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Labour, Gender, and Social Development (MLGSD), is developing a Management Information System on Business and Human Rights to improve the reporting and monitoring of human rights violations and abuses within Uganda’s business sectors.
This development was disclosed by Hon. Betty Amongi Ongom, the line minister, this morning during the official opening of the 6th Annual Symposium of Business and Human Rights at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala. Multi-stakeholders are meeting to explore potential ways to promote ethical business practices in Uganda.
The 6th symposium, organized by Resource Rights Africa (RRA) and co-convened by Witness Radio, the Ministry of Labour Gender and Social Development (MoGLSD), and DanChurchAid (DCA), among others, will be held today, November 4, on the theme “Emerging voluntary and mandatory frameworks: Strengthening responsible business conduct in Uganda.”
“I’m glad to let you know that my ministry is working on a management information system on human rights and business to improve the reporting of human rights abuses in Uganda.” The minister said while officiating the opening of the two-day event.
She added that the purpose of the Management Information System is to enable the reporting of worker rights violations, including harassment, non-payment, contract terminations, and other related issues.
“These kinds of problems are common, such as child labor on tea and sugar plantations and human trafficking, in which individuals are transported from different regions, left unpaid, without a place to live, while others are forced to work without safety equipment, putting their lives in danger. If you feel your rights are being violated, this tool will enable you to report directly online.” She added.
While business enterprises continue to be strong partners in promoting respect for human rights in Uganda, the minister asserts that empirical evidence shows gaps in delivering positive outcomes, such as limited innovation, insufficient capacity, and tools to ensure respect for human rights in business operations.
“The essence of developing this framework stems from recognizing the power imbalance between employer and employee. We want to empower employees to assert their rights and improve their working conditions, ensuring their voices are heard. Some employers exploit workers, demote them, or change their schedules unfairly,” she urged all attendees to actively participate in the symposium to share views, solutions, and recommendations for improving business practices that respect workers’ rights.” She further expressed.
Additionally, she conveyed her appreciation to the European Union and other partners for their committed assistance in promoting human rights and business in Uganda.
Prior to this, H.E. Adam Sparre Spliid, the deputy head of mission for the Royal Danish Embassy, emphasized that human rights are becoming increasingly respected as more nations, including Uganda, agree to implement the National Action Plan’s business and human rights recommendations. “The Danish government stands ready to assist Uganda in accomplishing its goal of respecting human rights, ” he said.
