By Diana.N.Kintu
The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development on Thursday convened the National Employers Conference (NEC2025) at the Mestil Hotel in Kampala, drawing together employers, policymakers, innovators, labour specialists, and development partners for a high-level dialogue on the future of work in Uganda.
The annual conference, one of the ministry’s flagship events, serves as a national platform for strengthening collaboration and designing practical strategies to address the country’s most pressing employment and productivity challenges.
Opening the conference, Mr. Alex Asiimwe, the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, posed a critical question that set the tone for the day’s discussions: “How do we create more and better jobs for Uganda’s young and rapidly growing population?”
Mr. Asiimwe emphasised that the question is not only timely but central to Uganda’s economic transformation agenda. He noted that with the country’s population projected to continue rising, the creation of decent and sustainable jobs must become a shared responsibility across government institutions, private sector actors, academic institutions, and development partners.
His remarks underscored the urgency of developing coordinated and innovative approaches that bridge the gap between available skills and labour-market demands.
The conference theme focused on strengthening collaboration between government and employers to shape a more competitive and inclusive labour market. Participants reflected on national priorities, including boosting job creation, modernising workplace practices, supporting enterprise growth, and preparing Uganda’s workforce—especially young people—for emerging economic opportunities.
State Minister for Gender and Culture, Hon. Mutuuzo Peace Regis, delivered a powerful message highlighting persistent labour-market challenges, particularly youth unemployment. She expressed concern about the rising joblessness among young men, noting that the trend poses long-term risks to national development and social stability.
Hon. Mutuuzo urged universities, technical institutions, and other training bodies to rethink their approach to youth preparation. She encouraged them to introduce targeted interventions that reduce idleness, nurture talent, and connect young people to productive economic activities.
The Minister further stressed the importance of strengthening vocational training and promoting innovation among youth as a pathway to decent employment. She added that government is committed to creating an enabling environment for workers and employers, but lasting change will require active participation from all stakeholders.
The conference also featured an engaging exhibition where innovators, entrepreneurs, and enterprises showcased their products, technologies, and workplace solutions. Attendees moved from booth to booth, exploring new ideas and interacting with young innovators eager to scale their contributions to national development.
Hon. Mutuuzo toured several of the stalls, commending exhibitors for their creativity and commitment to building a more dynamic and competitive economy. She encouraged employers to embrace innovation, adopt modern labour practices, and invest in skilling to strengthen workplace productivity.
Participants used the sidelines of the conference to network, form partnerships, and exchange ideas on how to improve employment outcomes across Uganda. Discussions centred on issues such as industrial relations, workforce planning, emerging labour standards, digital skills, and the role of employers in supporting national skilling initiatives.
By the end of the conference, it was evident that NEC2025 had not only highlighted key challenges but had also ignited new energy among stakeholders committed to shaping a more resilient labour market.
Organisers noted that the insights and recommendations gathered from the conference will inform future labour-sector policies and interventions, ensuring that the country continues to make progress toward decent work for all Ugandans.