Platform for Labour Action (PLA) is a National Civil Society Organization that was founded in the year 2000. PLA is focused on promoting and protecting the rights of vulnerable and marginalized workers through empowerment of communities and individuals in Uganda.
Lives impacted
years of service
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:
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
Get ready to be inspired! ✨ We are absolutely thrilled to unveil PLA International, a dynamic 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, proudly established in Indiana in 2023. Our hearts beat with the conviction that research is not just a tool, but a powerful catalyst for crafting and deploying projects that forge a path towards truly equitable and sustainable development. This incredible new chapter is a vibrant continuation of the profound work pioneered by our esteemed sister organization, Platform for Labour Action in Uganda, building upon a legacy of years of unparalleled experience and resounding success. 🌟
At the very core of PLA International, our passion ignites research-driven project design and impactful implementation, ensuring every endeavor blossoms into tangible, life-changing results. International collaboration isn't just a strategy for us; it's the very heartbeat of our mission, empowering us to forge unbreakable cross-border partnerships, embrace a kaleidoscope of diverse perspectives, and strategically amplify our collective efforts to create a brighter world. We are equally, fervently committed to uplifting communities, showering them with the invaluable gifts of knowledge sharing and robust capacity building, all to cultivate a future brimming with long-term self-sufficiency and boundless hope. 💪💡
We are bursting with excitement to embark on this monumental journey alongside our phenomenal dedicated team, our invaluable volunteers, and our cherished partners. To dive deeper into our visionary planned activities, discover exhilarating volunteering opportunities, and learn how you can become a vital part of our movement, please visit our website and stay connected! Together, let's build a future that shines with unparalleled brilliance! ✨
On 12th June 2025, Platform for Labour Action (PLA), alongside fellow civil society organizations in Uganda, joined the global community in commemorating the World Day Against Child Labour. This year’s theme is a powerful call to accelerate efforts to eliminate child labour, especially as the 2025 deadline for Sustainable Development Goal 8.7 approaches.
Uganda continues to face a high prevalence of child labour, with over 6.2 million children aged 5–17 engaged in work, and more than 1 million in hazardous conditions. The most affected sectors include agriculture, domestic work, mining, and informal trade, especially in regions like Karamoja, Busoga, and Northern Uganda.
Despite progress in legislation and policy, implementation remains slow and underfunded. The informal economy, where 90% of child labour occurs, is largely unregulated. Economic pressures, including rising living costs and post-COVID-19 challenges, have worsened the situation.
PLA urges all stakeholders; government, parliament, development partners, private sector, and communities to:
“Child labour is not inevitable; it is preventable. It is a choice society makes, and today, we call upon all of us to choose differently.”
— Grace Mukwaya, Executive Director, PLA
Let’s act now. Let’s protect childhood. Let’s end child labour.
