The Government of Uganda, in partnership with Enabel Uganda and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), is set to join the rest of the world in convening an international migration-focused National Employers’ Conference.
Speaking to journalists at the Uganda Media Centre on Wednesday, 19th November, 2025, the Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon Peace Regis Mutuuzo, confirmed that the conference will be officiated by the Prime Minister, Rt Hon Robinah Nabbanja, who will serve as Guest of Honour.
Scheduled for today, Thursday November 20, 2025, at Mestil Hotel in Kampala, the conference will run under the theme; “Advancing Employment Pathways and Competitiveness through Career Guidance, Innovation, Digitalisation, Partnership and Labour Mobility for Effective Labour Market Transition.”
According to Minister Mutuuzo, the theme directly aligns with Uganda’s long-term ambition to build a productive, competitive and dignified workforce capable of driving the country into upper-middle-income status.
She noted that the event comes at a critical time, as Uganda continues to experience rapid technological advancement and shifts toward more productive and decent employment systems.
Mutuuzo revealed that Uganda produces over 700,000 new job seekers each year, yet only a fraction successfully transition into permanent employment. Findings from the 2021 National Labour Survey, she said, highlight the difficult landscape for young job seekers. 60% of Ugandans find employment through informal networks, while only 16% secure jobs through formal job advertisements.
“This means that many young Ugandans remain disconnected from credible labour market information, increasing vulnerability, unemployment, underemployment and exploitation,” the minister said.
On the employers’ side, the survey further revealed persistent challenges including skills mismatch, low productivity, and limited digital adaptation, all of which hinder workforce competitiveness.
Addressing the plight of returnee migrant workers, Mutuuzo noted that many Ugandans returning from work abroad face difficulties reintegrating into the domestic labour market. She added that Uganda still lacks adequate training institutions to properly prepare those seeking employment abroad.
The conference is expected to bring together a diverse group of participants, including employers, civil society leaders, workers’ groups, CEOs, technology innovators, government ministries and agencies, academia, and job seekers.
The programme will feature high-level panel discussions with experts and major employers, focusing on improving labour mobility, competitiveness, and the future of work.
An exhibition section will also be held, where employers will showcase available job opportunities from various sectors. The conference is expected to deliver a wide range of benefits, including
The organisers expressed optimism that the conference will chart a new direction for Uganda’s labour market, especially in supporting youth employment and responsible labour migration.
