During Labour Day celebrations in Nakapiripirit District, President Yoweri Museveni pledged to tackle Uganda minimum wage reform. He acknowledged that wages have remained stagnant for decades. However, he offered no clear timeline or plan.
“We will tackle minimum wage issues,” Museveni said, renewing hopes for long-overdue reforms.
For many workers, the statement was long-awaited. Uganda’s official minimum wage is Shs6,000 ($1.60) per month, unchanged since 1984. It is one of the lowest in Africa.
A Debate That Won’t Die
The issue has lingered for nearly a decade. In 2015, Parliament passed a bill to establish sector-based minimum wages. Museveni rejected it in 2019, saying the existing law was sufficient.
Despite that, calls for reform have not stopped. In March 2025, Shadow Minister Ethel Naluyima urged MPs to revisit the bill. Workers’ MP Abdul Byakatonda later confirmed that Museveni was open to a dialogue with labour representatives.
Still, the government has not shared a clear plan.
Uganda’s Position in the Region
Uganda’s wage policies trail behind those of its neighbours:
- Kenya: Workers in Nairobi earn around KSh15,120 ($116) monthly. The country reviews wages regularly.
- Tanzania: Wages range from TSh100,000 ($38) to TSh400,000 ($152), depending on the sector.
- Rwanda: The only official wage dates back to 1974. In practice, wages vary widely.
- Burundi: The daily wage is BIF 1,500 (about $13/month), but most workers earn less.
Compared to these, the need for Uganda minimum wage reform is urgent.
More Than Just Wages
Museveni also spoke about creating jobs. He highlighted projects like the Parish Development Model (PDM). This aims to boost employment through local agriculture.
He promised to reduce the cost of doing business. This includes improving infrastructure, lowering electricity prices, and increasing access to affordable loans.
Museveni said these steps would grow the economy. They would also improve conditions for workers.
Labour unions, however, say that economic growth must also protect workers. They argue that legal wage floors are essential. Without them, workers remain at risk of abuse and poverty.
What Happens Next?
Museveni’s remarks have revived hope. But his lack of detail frustrates workers. Unions want clear reforms—not just promises.
Some call for reviving the 2015 bill. Others urge the Wages Council to be given real power.
“Acknowledgement is not enough. What we need is implementation,” said one union leader.
Until action follows, Uganda minimum wage reform remains a promise on paper. Workers now wait to see if this time, real change will come.
