Uganda seeks to adopt Philippines migrant welfare model

Riyadh, (Saudi Arabia):- In a bid to enhance the welfare and protection of Ugandan migrant workers in the Middle East, a delegation led by Mr Kayonde Abdallah, President of Migrant Workers’ Voice and International Director for Ugandan Migrant Workers, and Mr Abdulatif Kaloddo, Chief Coordinator for Uganda Labour Companies, visited the Philippines Migrant Workers Office (PMWO) in Riyadh.

The delegation engaged in discussions with Mr. Antonio M. Mutuc, Jr., head of the Department of Labor at PMWO, to explore best practices that Uganda could adopt to improve the conditions of its workforce abroad.

The discussions focused on the Philippines’ Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), a well-structured system that ensures the protection and financial security of Filipino migrant workers.

Among the key topics that headlined the discussion was the sustainability of migrant welfare programs, financial investment in worker support, and the importance of separating labour and consular functions for effective service delivery.

The Philippines allocates approximately $1 million USD per month to fund welfare programs for its workers in Saudi Arabia, a commitment backed by both government resources and contributions from Filipino workers through a Provident Fund.

This system provides a safety net that includes loans, social security benefits, accident insurance, and financial assistance for workers facing challenges abroad.

“Our government prioritizes migrant welfare by ensuring a dedicated budget and political will to support over one million Filipino workers in Saudi Arabia,” Mr. Mutuc explained. “This structure allows us to provide essential benefits and protections, ensuring that workers have financial security and access to necessary services.”

Implications for Uganda

With an estimated 200,000 Ugandan migrant workers currently in Saudi Arabia, the Ugandan delegation aimed to learn from the Philippines’ model and assess how similar strategies could be implemented. The visit is part of a broader Visibility and Support Mission led by Mr. Kayonde in Saudi Arabia, where he is engaging with Ugandan workers in distress, providing support for the sick, and facilitating repatriation efforts.

“Ugandan workers in the Middle East contribute significantly to our economy, and it is our duty to ensure their safety and well-being,” Mr. Kayonde emphasized. “Learning from the Philippines will help us advocate for stronger government policies and improved worker protections.”

The discussions mark an important step toward Uganda’s goal of establishing a structured and financially sustainable migrant welfare system, ensuring better protection and support for its workers in the Gulf region.