Uganda closer to new deal with UAE on labour export

Feb 28, 2019

Uganda’s ambassador to UAE, Wanume Kibedi Zaake revealed on Thursday that a team from UAE was expected to visit Uganda for a second round of negotiations on the matter.

The Director, Uganda Investment Authority, Martin Muhangi (L) looks on as the Uganda's Ambassador to United Arab Emirates, Kibedi Zaake addresses the press at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' head offices in Kampala on February 28, 2019. Photo by Ronnie Kijjambu

LABOUR

KAMPALA - Uganda and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are closer to inking a new deal that will guarantee that Ugandan domestic workers in the Middle East nation are treated well by their employers.

Uganda's ambassador to UAE, Wanume Kibedi Zaake revealed on Thursday that a team from UAE was expected to visit Uganda for a second round of negotiations on the matter.

Last year, Uganda sent a delegation to UAE to negotiate terms of a memorandum of agreement which is expected to be signed by both countries in April.

"We are preparing to sign a memorandum of agreement. A delegation from ministry of gender held talks with counterparts in UAE last year," Kibedi said at a media briefing.

At least 200 Ugandans are currently working in UAE. The negotiations with UAE are part of broader measures by Uganda to streamline labour export and protect nationals from exploitation.

One of the firms has agreed to set up a solar and wind power plant in Karamoja sub-region worth $100m (sh365b) and another $50m (sh182b) renewable plant in Arua district.

UAE is one of Uganda's trade partners in the Middle East, with trade volumes in excess of $640m.

Last year, the two countries signed an MOU allowing Ugandan farmers to export more agricultural products to the UAE. Over 90% of Uganda's $440m exports to UAE are minerals.

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