By Diana N.Kintu
Uganda is set to host the Fourth Annual National Labour Convention and Expo in a renewed effort to address youth employment and strengthen the country’s labour sector. The two-day event, organised by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, will take place from 15 to 16 April 2026 at the Kampala Serena Hotel.
Held under the theme “Unlocking the Potential of Uganda’s Youth Labour Force: Advancing Productivity and Expanding Opportunities for Decent Work,” the convention is expected to bring together key stakeholders from government, the private sector, labour organisations, and development partners. The Vice President is expected to preside over the event as the Chief Guest.
The convention forms part of the build-up to International Labour Day, and continues to position itself as a national platform for dialogue on employment, productivity, and inclusive economic growth.
In a press statement, the Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Betty Amongi Ongom, noted that the convention has grown into one of Uganda’s most significant forums for shaping the future of work.
“Since its launch in 2023, the convention has convened government, employers, workers’ organisations, and development partners to generate actionable commitments on decent employment, labour productivity, and inclusive growth,” she said.
Uganda’s youthful population remains central to the discussions. According to government data, more than 75 per cent of the population is below the age of 30, with approximately 57.4 per cent falling within the working-age bracket. However, the labour market continues to face structural challenges, with over 80 per cent of the workforce engaged in the informal sector.
Minister Amongi emphasised that addressing these challenges is critical to the country’s economic future. She noted that harnessing the potential of young people is not only a social priority but also an economic necessity.
“Unlocking the productive potential of this youthful majority is both an economic imperative and a pathway to Uganda’s long-term prosperity,” she added.
Speaking at the Uganda Media Centre, the Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial Relations, Esther Anyakun, reiterated the government’s commitment to creating practical employment opportunities for young people.
“This expo is about unlocking opportunities for our young people. We want to see practical solutions that connect skills to jobs and expand decent work,” she said.
The 2026 convention will focus on four key objectives: enhancing the productivity of the youth labour force, addressing policy and regulatory barriers to decent work, promoting skills development and apprenticeship programmes, and strengthening partnerships aimed at expanding employment opportunities and social protection.
Organisers say the event will feature panel discussions, exhibitions, and knowledge-sharing sessions designed to generate innovative ideas and policy recommendations. Particular emphasis will be placed on bridging the gap between education and employment, as well as fostering collaboration between industry and training institutions.
The ministry has called upon businesses, vocational training centres, and development organisations to actively participate in the convention. Minister Amongi stressed that broad-based engagement is essential to achieving meaningful progress in addressing unemployment and underemployment.
“Your participation will directly contribute to advancing Uganda’s agenda for youth employment, productivity, and decent work for all,” she said.
Attendance at the convention will be by invitation only, with accredited delegates expected to participate in person. However, members of the public will be able to follow proceedings through live broadcasts on national television and other media platforms.