Ugandans Cautioned Against Using Unlicensed Labor Migration Firms

Ugandans Cautioned Against Using Unlicensed Labor Migration Firms

Ugandans Cautioned Against Using Unlicensed Labor Migration Firms

By Patrick Jaramogi

Ugandans seeking for jobs abroad have been cautioned against using unlicensed labor recruitment firms.

The call was made by the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs Hajji Abbey Walusimbi.

Walusimbi said that these companies take advantage of fellow unsuspecting countrymen and women, in the name of finding them savvy job placements.

Walusimbi who visited several accommodations in Qatar encountered 54 distressed Ugandan migrant workers who are stranded in a dilapidated building in Industrial Area, Sanaya, Doha.

The development followed a tip by the leadership of Ugandan Community in Qatar, in a meeting with Ambassador Walusimbi and Deputy Head of Mission, Ambassador Muhammad Kezaala, during which he was informed of a predicament of some Ugandans, who live and work in deplorable conditions in Qatar.

“When we reached this place, the inhabitants appeared like people, who had been resurrected. Majority of them had been there for more than three months and were allegedly waiting for resident permits, for which they paid an extra shs1.3 million upon arrival in Doha. We have names of their facilitators in Uganda, some of which are registered as tours and travel companies, and we have met some of the alleged Qatar agents, who surprisingly are Ugandans. The embassy is going to ensure that they are dealt with accordingly,” Ambassador Walusimbi said.

He asked Ugandans to stop risking their lives in the hunt for seductive jobs, in foreign countries, by using wrong channels, especially unaccredited labor agencies.

“In case of a death, incarceration of any other problem the government wouldn’t have a starting point to help you. I know that there are many Ugandans, who have gone through the right channels and still got problems but in cases like that, we know who to hold accountable and it is easier to get you justice even when you are away. President Museveni has done everything to secure you, so do not be negligent with your lives,” he added.

Walusimbi disclosed that, Qataris are hospitable and good development partners, but most problems stem from the errant Ugandan labor brokers, who lure innocent Ugandan youth into dubious acts, in pursuit of overseas employment.