Every day, thousands of Ugandans leave their homes some moving from rural communities to urban centers, others crossing borders in search of better opportunities. For many, labour migration represents hope: a chance to earn, to support families, and to build a better future. Yet, for too many, this dream is cut short by exploitation, unsafe working conditions, and broken promises.
For 25 years, Platform for Labour Action (PLA) has stood at the frontline of protecting and defending Uganda’s workers, with migrant workers at the heart of its interventions. PLA believes no worker should ever have to choose between survival and dignity and for a quarter century, it has worked to ensure rights, justice, and protection for those often silenced or forgotten.
Monica’s Journey: From Migrant Worker to Advocate
The story of Kebirungi Monica, a returnee and now a Social Protection Volunteer at PLA, reveals both the struggles and resilience of Ugandan migrant workers.
“My name is Kebirungi Monica, a former migrant worker. I once worked as a personal assistant in Saudi Arabia. Unfortunately, I could not complete my contract due to health complications. When I returned home, I faced so many challenges struggling with my health and also struggling to find a new direction for my life. It was one of the hardest times I have ever faced.” – Monica
Her experience reflects the reality faced by many Ugandan women abroad, where cases of exploitation and even sexual abuse have been reported in the media, including recent BBC coverage.
Yet Monica’s story did not end in despair. Through PLA’s reintegration support and empowerment programs, she found a way to rebuild her life and use her voice to help others.
“PLA gave me training and an opportunity to serve as a Social Protection Volunteer. This role has given me more skills as a social worker, more confidence, and more opportunities to help others in the community. I now guide people on correct migration procedures, on how to do due diligence, and on the importance of reporting suspicious or illegal recruitment practices.” – Monica
25 Years of Standing With Workers
PLA’s legacy over the last 25 years is one of impact, consistency, and courage. From Kampala to rural districts, and from grassroots communities to national and international policy spaces, PLA has positioned itself as a trusted defender of workers’ rights.
For migrant workers, PLA’s work has been especially transformative:
- Raising Awareness: Using community dialogues, radio, social media and TV platforms, PLA educates workers and families about safe migration, labour rights, and available protection services.
- Legal Aid and Justice: PLA provides legal representation, mediation, and psychosocial support for migrant workers in distress.
- Reintegration and Livelihoods: PLA ensures that returnees like Monica are not abandoned. Instead, they are connected to opportunities for skills development, psychosocial support, and entrepreneurship so that returning home becomes a chance to rebuild, not a dead end.
- Policy and Advocacy: As a member of the National Coordination Mechanism on Migration and the National Task Force on Trafficking in Persons, PLA influences policies that strengthen protection frameworks for Uganda’s migrant workers.
Why This Work Matters
Labour migration is not simply about movement; it is about people, their aspirations, and their dignity. For 25 years, PLA has been the voice ensuring that migration is not a path to exploitation but a pathway to empowerment.
Monica, now an advocate in her community, embodies this mission.
“I have been able to help returnees know about the support programs available for them. I also speak with young people who want to travel abroad. I tell them: make sure you do your research, make sure the company is safe, and do not be rushed into risky decisions. Sadly, I have met many people who did not do due diligence and are now suffering some exploited, some trapped, and some who may never return.” – Monica
Her voice is a reminder that every migrant worker matters -their rights, their dignity, and their dreams deserve protection.
A Call to Action
As PLA celebrates 25 years of tireless advocacy, it renews its commitment to Uganda’s workers especially migrant workers whose struggles too often remain invisible.
“To the community and to every returnee out there: continue to chase your dreams. And for those planning to travel, please do your due diligence. If you are struggling, remember there are support networks like PLA where you can find legal aid and reintegration support.” – Monica
For 25 years, PLA has proven that migration can be safe, fair, and dignified. With greater support, it can continue transforming the lives of thousands more workers like Monica.
Authored by Angella Asiimwe, Consulting Blogger under Voice Consults
Hashtag: #PLAat25