Employment creation is central to the national socio-economic development process. It is at the core of the transformation of Uganda from a poor agrarian economy to a modern, prosperous and skilled society. The main asset that the poor have is their labour and if appropriately harnessed it can be transformed into sustainable and productive employment and better quality of life. Sustainable employment is the main source of livelihoods and self-fulfilment for most women and men.
Human capital quality is essential for employability, higher incomes and sustainable economic growth. Likewise, a well-nurtured, skilled and productive labour force contributes towards a dynamic economy and cohesive society and better quality of life. The only way to survive, generate value and prosper today and in the future is to become more innovative and productive. Lack of access to decent and remunerative employment, lowers self-esteem; leads to denial of basic needs of the individual and the family thus perpetuating the vicious circle of poverty. The most direct impact of unemployment, low skill, low productivity and poor working conditions on the economy is the loss in terms of output of goods and services. The consequences of unemployment and underemployment could be seriously damaging as a potential source of industrial unrest, instability and increased crime rate.
It is, therefore, important that Government works towards the goal of decent and remunerative employment for all women and men seeking such work, in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity. The National Employment Policy for Uganda provides a framework for achieving this goal.