In Kayunga and Buikwe, Nandala promises minimum wage, economic relief for workers

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Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate James Nathan Nandala Mafabi has pledged to introduce a national minimum wage for all workers as part of a broader plan to address unemployment, low incomes and deepening poverty across Uganda.

Speaking to supporters in Kayunga and Buikwe districts on December 31, 2025, Nandala said many Ugandans are trapped in economic hardship due to low pay, job insecurity and a struggling economy, arguing that a minimum wage is essential to restoring dignity to labour.

(Credit: Alfred Ochwo)

A Nandala Mafabi campaign poster. (Credit: Alfred Ochwo)

(Credit: Alfred Ochwo)

(Credit: Alfred Ochwo)

“It’s time for change. I know life is hard, but we are coming with a plan to lift this hardship, fix the economy and have money in our pockets. I am here as your employee. I want to be a servant you can rely on,” Nandala said.

He said the absence of a clear wage policy has left workers vulnerable, particularly in rural districts where casual labour, fishing and agriculture dominate livelihoods.

“Our people that work in plantations are paid sh3000 a day, that’s less than sh100,000 per month, how can one pay fees, medication and look after their family on that money. My government will set a minimum wage for all workers in the formal and informal sector. We will fight exploitation and enforce workers’ rights that include benefits,” he said.

Beyond wages, Nandala pledged to boost household incomes through value addition, particularly in agriculture. In Kayunga, where pineapple growing is widespread, he said his government would establish processing industries to enable farmers to earn more instead of selling raw produce at low prices.

Nandala Mafabi addressing voters. (Credit: Alfred Ochwo)

“Our people work very hard but remain poor because we export raw materials. Value addition will create jobs and improve incomes,” he said.

Nandala also addressed land wrangles and land grabbing, which he described as a major cause of poverty and social tension in the region. He promised a comprehensive audit of land taken by government and government officials to restore confidence in land ownership and protect vulnerable communities.

Health care reforms featured prominently in his economic agenda. He said poor access to health services drains household incomes and deepens poverty, particularly when families are forced to seek treatment far from home.

“All health centres will be upgraded to referral hospitals. We will no longer need someone to go to Mulago for mere treatment,” Nandala said.

He promised to equip hospitals with modern medical equipment, improve the pay of health workers and invest in training to curb the exodus of medical professionals.

“Our doctors will no longer need to go abroad for jobs. If we pay them well and give them proper working conditions, they will stay,” he said.

Local leaders and residents said Nandala’s message resonated with communities that feel excluded from government programmes.

Lukia Namwanga, the FDC flag bearer and Woman MP aspirant for Buikwe South, said residents are desperate for practical solutions.

“People in Buikwe are tired of empty promises. We want leadership that understands our land problems, poor health services and youth unemployment. Nandala speaks as someone who knows this area and its struggles,” Namwanga said.



Teachers also raised concerns about low pay and worsening social conditions. Nashiibah Nampeera, a teacher in Buikwe, said the economic strain on educators is severe.

“Teachers are overworked and underpaid, yet we are expected to solve everything in society. We need salary increments, but we are also battling rising teenage pregnancies and even air pollution that is affecting our health,” she said.

With two weeks remaining before Ugandans choose their next five-year government, Nandala took a break from campaigning on January 1 and is set to resume on Friday, January 2, in Fort Portal city, Kabarole, Kakumiro and Kibaale districts.