national 31 March 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Government Launches Medical Board to Speed Up Workers' Compensation Claims
Uganda's Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development has set up a four-member Medical Arbitration Board to resolve disputes over workplace injuries and occupational diseases, aiming to enhance fairness and efficiency in compensation processes. The board will tackle medical assessments and backlogs, addressing low insurance coverage amid rising concerns for workers in high-risk sectors. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-unveils-medical-board-to-fast-track-workers-compensation-disputes-5409422
The Ministry of Gender Labour and Social Development has launched a Medical Arbitration Board (MAB) to address disputes from workplace injuries and occupational illnesses, boosting workers’ access to rightful compensation.
Sworn in on March 31, the board is led by orthopaedic expert Moses Chesro, alongside Jane Nakibuka, Emmanuel Adupa, and Apollo Onzoma. It will handle issues like medical evaluations, injury severity, incapacity levels, and lasting impacts of job-related diseases.
Permanent Secretary Aggrey Kibenge highlighted the board’s role in promoting fairness, speed, and accountability. Complaints start at district labour offices before reaching the board for binding medical rulings.
This step responds to inadequate insurance, with Uganda Insurers Association data indicating only 49% of 246 firms cover workers’ compensation, exposing many employees to risks.
State Minister for Youth and Children Balaam Barugahara stressed justice for injured workers, especially youth in construction, manufacturing, and agriculture, calling it a social justice imperative.
Dr. Chesro noted a heavy case backlog but committed to monthly sessions to resolve them by 2026, ensuring impartiality and timely justice via district offices.
Established under the Workers Compensation Act, the MAB reviews evidence, performs assessments, and delivers final decisions to cut delays and build trust among workers, employers, and insurers.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)