How Uganda Police favors foreign interests at the expense of workers’ rights amid exploitation, hidden colonialism

Mbale, (UG):- Ugandan citizens have raised concerns over alleged exploitation and hidden colonial practices as foreign donors running charitable organizations in Uganda, such as J4:14 Foundation, are accused of turning their operations into profit-driven businesses.

The scandal came to light after J4:14 Foundation workers in eastern Uganda protested non-payment of wages and benefits, only to face police action allegedly orchestrated by the foundation’s founder, J.D. Smith, and his associate, James Harrington, during a contentious merger with the Ugandan Water Project.

The merger between J4:14 Foundation and the Ugandan Water Project has sparked outrage among stakeholders, especially as details emerged that water fees for beneficiaries would rise from UGX 1,000 to UGX 4,500 per month.

Previously, the foundation rehabilitated government-owned boreholes in vulnerable rural communities in eastern Uganda, charging minimal fees to ensure access to clean water. Critics argue the increased charges exploit impoverished communities while benefiting foreign-run organizations that enjoy tax exemptions under the guise of charitable work.

Worker Exploitation and Legal Irregularities

Former workers of J4:14 allege mistreatment, unpaid wages, and unresolved benefits, including an estimated UGX 1 billion in unpaid National Social Security Fund (NSSF) contributions.

Despite having contracts running until 2026, many workers were dismissed without due process. Reports indicate that local police, including the Officer-in-Charge of Criminal Investigations (OC CID) in Mbale City, sided with the foreign donor, allowing the organization’s assets to be handed over without a court resolution.

The controversy has highlighted broader issues with foreign-led charities operating in Uganda. Investigations revealed that many foreign organizations operate under the pretence of charity while engaging in untaxed business activities.

Critics accuse a key figure, Robbie, who has lived in Uganda for over a decade, of masterminding schemes to help foreign charities evade legal and tax obligations while profiting from vulnerable Ugandans.

Calls for Government Intervention

Concerned activists and affected workers are now urging President Museveni and the Ugandan government to address these injustices. They demand stricter regulation of foreign charities, protection of local workers’ rights, and accountability for police officers implicated in biased decision-making.

“Ugandans are being left vulnerable to exploitation under the watch of their own government. It’s time for the authorities to act and ensure that these so-called charity organizations are held accountable for their actions,” said a former J4:14 employee who preferred to stay anonymous in this story.

As the J4:14 Foundation scandal unfolds, many Ugandans hope it will serve as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritize the welfare of citizens over the interests of foreign-run organizations masquerading as charities.