Govt warns against over-reliance on digital tools

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Government has asked employers to go slow on the digitisation process in order to guard organisations against cyber-attacks as well as the health of employees.

The caution was made by the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Betty Amongi, while addressing reporters at the Uganda Media Centre on Friday, ahead of celebrations to mark World Day for Safety and Health at Work 2025 due on April 28.

Amongi said digital tools in the form of software, applications, platforms, and technologies have transformed traditional job roles, leading to an increase in remote work arrangements, also known as telecommuting or ‘working from home’.

Under this arrangement, employees work through WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, X, Facebook, among others.

“While this flexibility can enhance work-life balance, it also blurs the boundaries between personal life and professional responsibilities. Workers may find themselves facing increased stress levels due to longer working hours or the pressure to remain constantly connected,” she said.

The minister further said the rise of digital tools also has adverse implications on the mental health of workers, manifested through stress from overuse of technologies, leading to anxiety and stress associated with constant connectivity, technological complexity and information overload.

“It is imperative that organisations prioritise issues of mental well-being, ergonomic considerations, including allowing periods of 'digital detox' to allow employees to temporarily disconnect."

About the cyber threats on the systems of organizations, Amongi said that much as the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in workplaces has introduced sophisticated systems designed to enhance safety protocols, increase efficiency and work, this over-reliance on technology could be a threat that could compromise sensitive employee information or disrupt operational safety measures at the workplace.

“As we embrace these technological advancements, it is crucial that we implement robust cybersecurity frameworks to protect our workforce. Let us commit to harnessing the power of digitalisation responsibly by prioritising worker safety and health amidst technological advancement,” she said.

On how her ministry plans to protect workers, Amongi assured employees of safety at work through the new legal and regulatory frameworks that the ministry has put in place to guide employers to provide safe working environments.

She added that the Occupational Safety and Health) (OSH) The Amendment Act has been assented to by President Yoweri Museveni.

The amendment introduces measures such as annual health and safety audits, mandatory safety and health officers, and safety committees to prevent exposure to hazards. It also addresses emerging employment trends and mental health issues in the workplace.

Amongi said the new provisions in the act will support her team to assess workplace conditions for all workplace categories and sanction non-compliant workplaces and employers.