news 26 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandan Labour Migrants Face Exploitation and Deception in Middle East
Numerous Ugandans pursuing jobs in the Middle East endure debt traps, abuse, and broken promises from fraudulent agents, with limited avenues for justice. Government reforms aim to enhance training and insurance protections amid rising migration numbers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/victims-of-deception-uncovering-the-dark-side-of-labour-migrants-in-middle-east-5404228
Many Ugandans dream of better lives through Middle East jobs, but reality often brings debt, exploitation, and violence. Over the past decade, 317,555 have secured formal positions there, mostly women at 84.45%.
Victims like Hadijah Namulindwa faced isolation in Saudi Arabia, with her phone seized and wages delayed, sparking abuse. Naseem Namubiru endured untreated illnesses and ignored pleas to recruiters. Nusurah Namyalo’s sister worked unpaid post-contract due to withheld documents.
Men suffer too: Umar Kyeyune got a gardener role instead of factory work, under threats. Richard Nakibinge’s daughter endured arrest trauma after a dispute. Yasin Kintu lost his property to a scam promising supermarket employment.
Misinformation on social media drives unsafe paths, per Makerere’s Dr. Aisha Nakiwala. Districts like Butambala and Bugweri send many workers. Relatives often act as traffickers, complicating interventions.
Ministry official Hillary Talemwa blames bypassing formal channels for illegal fees exceeding limits and passport seizures—over 20,000 in 2024. Reforms include extending pre-departure training to 1-2 months and mandatory health insurance for emergencies.
Recruiter Ian Kaijuka supports longer training to match competitors like Ethiopia, stressing verification of licensed firms.
This story draws from Daily Monitor (Uganda).