Saudi Arabia has agreed to pardon Ugandan nationals held in deportation centers and prisons, following negotiations with Uganda. Approximately 150,000 Ugandans reside in Saudi Arabia, mainly as domestic workers, though illegal trafficking and human rights issues affect many. The number of those pardoned will be confirmed in 60 days, as Uganda’s government aims to protect its citizens abroad.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has committed to pardoning a number of Ugandan nationals currently held in their deportation centers and prisons, following discussions with the Ugandan government. Reports indicate that Uganda is home to approximately 150,000 citizens residing in Saudi Arabia, many of whom are employed as domestic workers. The pact between the two nations facilitates labor migration to Saudi Arabia, although it is also marred by allegations of illegal trafficking among some migrants. The exact number of Ugandans to be pardoned will be disclosed within 60 days, pending verification of their presence in Saudi Arabia. During a recent diplomatic meeting in Riyadh, Uganda’s Minister of Labor, Employment and Industrial Relations, Ms. Esther Anyakun, announced, “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.” This significant decision offers hope to many families in Uganda who have faced uncertainty regarding their loved ones who sought better livelihoods abroad. However, it has been reported that certain individuals in custody are accused of serious offenses, including drug trafficking, prostitution, and violent crimes. In light of these circumstances, Ugandan security agencies and relevant ministries have formed a committee aimed at preventing human trafficking to Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries. Moreover, recent judicial rulings in Uganda have mandated labor export companies to safeguard the rights of individuals they send abroad for work. Amid the backdrop of these challenges, the recent decision to repatriate Ugandan citizens underscores a growing commitment to addressing the rights and welfare of migrant workers.
The issue of Ugandan labor migrants in Saudi Arabia is complex, involving labor agreements, human rights concerns, and allegations of human trafficking. Uganda’s significant migrant population in Saudi Arabia consists predominantly of women employed as domestic helpers. However, the experience of these workers is often fraught with challenges, including reports of human rights abuses, exploitation, and illegal trafficking. In this context, the recent agreement to pardon undocumented Ugandans signifies a significant diplomatic effort to resolve the plight of migrant workers and reinforce the importance of humane treatment for all expatriates.
The agreement by Saudi Arabia to pardon and repatriate Ugandan nationals represents a major step towards alleviating the distress experienced by many families in Uganda due to the uncertain fates of their relatives abroad. The establishment of a dedicated committee to combat human trafficking is also a critical move aimed at promoting the welfare and rights of Ugandan workers in foreign countries. However, the recognition of underlying issues, including crime allegations among some migrants, indicates ongoing challenges that both nations must collaboratively address to ensure the protection and dignity of workers.
Original Source: www.monitor.co.ug
