Saudi Arabia plans to pardon a number of Ugandans imprisoned in the country following negotiations with Uganda. The Ugandan government estimates about 150,000 Ugandans reside in Saudi Arabia, mainly as domestic workers. The exact number of pardoned individuals will be revealed within 60 days after verification processes. Concerns over illegal trafficking and labor abuses continue to persist, prompting Ugandan authorities to take steps toward ensuring the safety and rights of migrant workers.
Saudi Arabia has announced its decision to pardon a number of Ugandans imprisoned in detoxification centers and jails within its territory. This pronouncement follows negotiations conducted between officials from Uganda and Saudi Arabia. The Ugandan delegation, headed by the State Minister for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, Ms. Esther Anyakun, engaged in discussions with Mr. Ahmed Alrajhu, the Saudi Minister for Human Resources and Social Development, last week in Riyadh. Although the precise number of Ugandans to be pardoned remains unspecified, it is expected to be disclosed within 60 days, once a verification process is completed regarding the Ugandan migrant population residing in Saudi Arabia. Currently, Uganda estimates that approximately 150,000 Ugandans are living and working in Saudi Arabia, predominantly as domestic helpers. Despite existing agreements facilitating labor migration, there exist concerns about human trafficking, as many Ugandans were reportedly trafficked illegally. Issues surrounding working conditions and human rights abuses have also been reported, including some migrant workers suffering tragic fates or being dismissed without compensation. In expressing optimism regarding the situation, Ms. Anyakun stated, “I have the pleasure to announce that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has agreed to pardon Ugandan migrant workers who have been stranded in deportation centres and prisons across the country.” She emphasized that the pardon offers hope for Ugandan families who have endured years of uncertainty regarding the well-being of their loved ones who sought better opportunities abroad. Saudi authorities allege that some individuals in custody have committed serious offenses, such as drug trafficking and robbery. To further prevent human trafficking, Ugandan security agencies and labor ministries have joined forces to tackle this issue, ensuring the rights of citizens seeking employment in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle East. Notably, a recent judicial directive in Uganda mandates that labor export companies must be accountable for protecting the rights of individuals they assist in securing overseas jobs. This recent development marks a significant move toward addressing the plight of Ugandans abroad, and it is anticipated to facilitate the repatriation of many individuals to Uganda.
The issue of Ugandan migrants in Saudi Arabia is of considerable significance, given the large number of individuals from Uganda—approximately 150,000—who have sought employment opportunities in the Kingdom, primarily in domestic work. Both Uganda and Saudi Arabia have formal agreements allowing for labor migration, yet the situation has been complicated by allegations of human trafficking and labor rights violations. Numerous reports suggest that many Ugandans are trafficked illegally, which leads to challenges in accurately assessing the Ugandan population in Saudi Arabia. Cases of abuse and exploitation have prompted calls for reforms in how labor export companies operate and for improved enforcement of protections for migrant workers.
The announcement by Saudi Arabia to pardon Ugandan migrants represents a crucial step toward aiding individuals who have faced significant hardships while seeking employment abroad. The government of Uganda, through negotiations and subsequent measures, aims to mitigate the suffering of its citizens by ensuring safe repatriation, addressing human trafficking, and advocating for the rights of migrant workers. The full extent of the pardons will soon be clarified, offering hope to many families affected by the uncertainties surrounding their loved ones traveling to Saudi Arabia for work.
Original Source: www.monitor.co.ug
