A Landmark Victory for Migrant Workers' Rights: Protect East African Migrants

The High Court of Uganda's recent ruling in favor of Ms. Namale Desire, a daughter of a deceased migrant worker, represents a significant victory for migrant workers' rights. This landmark case, which held Horeb Services Uganda Ltd accountable for the death of Desire’s mother, Milly Namutamba, while working in Saudi Arabia, is not just a personal triumph for the family, but also a critical step in advocating for the rights of thousands of East African migrants working abroad. The court's decision underscores the responsibility of recruitment agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the workers they send overseas, but it also highlights the long road ahead in creating meaningful change in the protection of migrant workers.

The High Court of Uganda is the third court of record in order of hierarchy and has unlimited original jurisdiction, which means that it can try any case of any value or crime of any magnitude. Appeals from all Magistrates Courts go to the High Court.

Tukole Empathy, the compassionate arm of Tukole Foundation, is committed to using this case as a stepping stone to build comprehensive protections for East African migrants. The department recognizes that while this court victory is a milestone, it also calls for sustained and intensified efforts to address the systemic challenges that migrant workers face. The High Court ruling is a signal to continue fighting for those who remain vulnerable, and Tukole Empathy is poised to lead this charge.

Expanding Collaboration for a Stronger Network

At the heart of Tukole Empathy’s strategy is collaboration. Tukole Empathy is actively working to expand its network to include international organizations that focus on labor rights, human rights, and migration. By working with global stakeholders, Tukole Empathy can amplify its advocacy and push for stronger legal frameworks that protect migrant workers across borders.

This approach also includes creating partnerships with diaspora communities. The East African diaspora has long been a critical resource for advocacy, awareness, and support. Migrants and their families are often more informed about the challenges they face and are better positioned to influence change. Tukole Empathy aims to mobilize these communities by creating support systems that provide both financial and legal resources for migrant workers and their families. By bringing the diaspora into the fold, Tukole Empathy hopes to create a united front that can demand justice and hold negligent parties accountable.

Lobbying for Policy Reforms and Stricter Regulations

The responsibility of ensuring the rights of migrant workers doesn’t stop at holding recruitment agencies accountable—it also requires systemic change at the governmental level. Tukole Empathy is intensifying its lobbying efforts with governments in East Africa and the Middle East to push for stricter regulations and better enforcement of migrant protection laws.

In East Africa, Tukole Empathy is advocating for more stringent oversight of recruitment agencies. Many of these companies operate with minimal scrutiny, which leads to a lack of accountability when things go wrong. By lobbying for tighter controls and greater transparency, Tukole Empathy is pushing for regulations that mandate proper training, health checks, and guarantees for migrant workers’ safety.

In addition to lobbying in East Africa, Tukole Empathy is also engaging with governments in the Middle East, where many East African migrant workers are employed. While the relationship between migrant workers and their employers in the Middle East is often complicated by cultural and legal differences, Tukole Empathy is committed to advocating for reforms that prioritize the safety and dignity of all migrant workers, regardless of their country of origin.

Changing the Narrative: From Victimization to Empowerment

For too long, the narrative around East African migrant workers has been one of victimization. Stories of abuse, exploitation, and neglect dominate the conversation. While these realities must be acknowledged, Tukole Empathy believes that it is time to shift the focus towards empowerment. Migrant workers are not just victims—they are resilient individuals who, with the right support, can protect themselves and thrive in their work abroad.

Tukole Empathy is focused on providing access to education, legal resources, and emotional support to help migrant workers gain the tools they need to safeguard their rights. Education is key—many migrant workers are unaware of their rights or the legal avenues available to them in case of abuse or mistreatment. By offering workshops and resources that educate both workers and their families, Tukole Empathy aims to arm migrants with the knowledge they need to navigate difficult situations and advocate for themselves.

Legal resources are equally important. Tukole Empathy is building partnerships with legal professionals both in East Africa and in destination countries to ensure that migrant workers have access to justice. The High Court ruling in favor of Ms. Namale Desire sets a precedent, but it is only the beginning. Tukole Empathy is committed to ensuring that all migrant workers, regardless of their circumstances, can seek legal recourse if their rights are violated.

Finally, Tukole Empathy recognizes the emotional toll that migration can take on workers and their families. Being far from home, often in challenging or hostile environments, can leave migrant workers feeling isolated and unsupported. Tukole Empathy is working to create support networks that connect migrants with each other and with local organizations that can offer emotional and psychological support. By addressing the emotional well-being of migrant workers, Tukole Empathy is working to create a holistic system of care that empowers workers to thrive, not just survive.

Conclusion: A New Era of Migrant Rights

The High Court ruling in favor of Ms. Namale Desire is a powerful reminder that justice is possible, but it is also a call to action. Tukole Empathy is committed to using this victory as a foundation to build more comprehensive protections for East African migrants. Through expanding its network, intensifying lobbying efforts, and shifting the narrative towards empowerment, Tukole Empathy is working to create a future where migrant workers are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.

Together, we can ensure that the rights of migrant workers are upheld, and that no one’s life is left unprotected. Tukole Empathy will continue to fight for justice, advocate for policy reforms, and provide the necessary resources to empower East African migrants.

To learn more about our work or get involved in the cause, please visit [Tukole Empathy’s website/contact information].