Enabel and the Federation of Uganda Employers (FUE) have joined forces to promote decent work in Uganda, with a special focus on Agriculture, Tourism, and Hospitality sectors. Through the Decent Work and Social Protection project, Enabel aims to recognize and celebrate employers committed to creating supportive and respectful work environments that prioritize the welfare and rights of their employees.

A significant outcome of this partnership is the expansion of the prestigious Employer of the Year Awards (EYA) to include new categories specifically tailored for the Albertine and Rwenzori regions in the focal sectors. This strategic move demonstrates a shared commitment to enhancing the quality of employment and social protection measures in regions that are crucial for Uganda's economic development.

The EYA dinner, held on Friday, March 1st, 2024, at Speke Resort Munyonyo, served as a platform to acknowledge and honour employers who have demonstrated exceptional resilience and innovation in navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the theme of 'Employer Competitiveness in the Post COVID-19 Era,' the event recognized organizations that have excelled in applying best business practices despite the adverse effects of the pandemic.

In his welcoming address, Mr. Douglas Opio, the CEO of FUE, extended heartfelt appreciation to Enabel for their unwavering support in expanding the scope of the EYA and extending its reach to previously underserved regions. He emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships to drive meaningful change and create a conducive environment for decent work across Uganda.

Mr Tom Vanneste, the Resident Representative of Enabel Uganda, reaffirmed Enabel's dedication to promoting decent work in Uganda. He shed light on the various initiatives and programs offered by Enabel and the Government of Belgium to support employer competitiveness, including skilling programs and Business and Human Rights initiatives.

Ms Mwenya Kapasa, representing both the International Labour Organization (ILO) Regional Director for East Africa and the ILO Uganda country office, stressed the importance of social protection and occupational safety and health for ensuring a productive workforce. She emphasized the need for collaborative efforts among partners to achieve sustainable development goals in Uganda.

The guest of honor, Mr Luc Pirson, the Deputy Head of Mission & Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Belgium to Uganda, commended Enabel and FUE for their joint efforts in promoting decent work through the EYA initiative. He highlighted the economic significance of the agricultural, tourism, and hospitality sectors in the Albertine and Rwenzori regions, stressing the need for decent working conditions to sustain growth and development. Mr Pirson announced the establishment of a Fair-Trade Tourism certification framework in Uganda, aimed at promoting sustainable tourism practices. He encouraged eligible tourism businesses to register their interest in becoming pioneers of Fair Trade Tourism, thereby showcasing their commitment to sustainability and accessing new market opportunities.

The collaboration between Enabel and FUE represents a significant step forward in the pursuit of decent work and social protection in Uganda. Through initiatives like the Employer of the Year Awards, they seek to not only recognize exemplary employers but also inspire others to prioritize the well-being of their employees. By fostering a culture of decency and social protection in the workplace, they aim to drive sustainable economic development, social equity, and human dignity across the country.

The following were the category award winners from the Rwenzori/Albertine Region:

Agricultural Sector
A. The Overall Winner in the Agricultural Sector: Malemo Food Company
B. Runner Up representing Albertine region: Nyakatonzi Growers Cooperative Union
C. Runner Up representing Rwenzori region: Alone Alisons

Tourism and Hospitality Sector
A. The Overall Winner in Tourism and Hospitality Sector: Miika Eco Resort Hotel Hoima City
B. Runner Up representing Albertine region: New Court View Hotel Masindi
C. Runner Up representing Rwenzori region: Sandton Hotel Kasese