news 27 July 2026 Nile Post
Uganda Boosts Workplace Dispute Resolution with Training for Labour Officers
Central Region labour officers are undergoing a specialized four-day training to enhance their skills in resolving workplace disputes, aiming to improve efficiency and reduce the backlog at the Industrial Court. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/359534/central-region-labour-officers-undergo-specialised-training-to-improve-workplace-dispute-resolution
The Judicial Training Institute (JTI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD), the Industrial Court, and the International Development Law Organization (IDLO), has initiated a significant training program for labour officers in Uganda’s central region. This program focuses on bolstering their expertise in crucial areas such as conciliation, mediation, arbitration, labour inspection, and effective case management, while also emphasizing the proper application of labour laws.
This initiative is the first in a series planned to cover the entire country, underscoring a national commitment to strengthening the labour justice system. Justice Mike Chibita, Chairperson of the JTI Governing Council, highlighted the vital role labour officers play as the initial point of contact for workplace disputes. By enhancing their capabilities, the aim is to reduce unnecessary referrals to the Industrial Court, which is currently facing a substantial backlog of cases.
Instructors will cover a comprehensive curriculum, including labour law, jurisdiction, case management, hearing procedures, alternative dispute resolution, and the implementation of the recent Employment (Amendment) Act, 2026. Emerging issues like the gig economy, migrant labour, and child labour will also be addressed.
JTI Executive Director Justice Prof. Andrew Khaukha noted that effective labour relations are crucial for Uganda’s socio-economic development. As the workforce expands, so does the potential for disputes, making continuous professional development for labour officers essential. The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development is also preparing to launch an ‘Access to Labour Justice Programme’ to improve technological infrastructure and the enforcement of labour officers’ decisions.
Industrial Court Head Justice Linda Lillian Tumusiime Mugisha stated that the court has registered over 8,000 cases since its inception, with a current backlog of over 2,000 matters predominantly stemming from labour officer referrals. Improved practical skills among labour officers are expected to lead to more consistent complaint handling and timely dispute resolution, thereby easing the burden on the court.