Although some people think that domestic work is uncomplicated, it still remains real work just like other jobs. The work can be physically and psychologically challenging. This type of work demands long hours, from preparing children to go to school in the morning to finish up when all others have gone to their beds. A domestic worker brings skills and experience into the home of her employer.

Domestic workers in Uganda are mostly girls the age of 16 and above who are hired to do domestic chores in a home. They are commonly referred to as “housemaids” or “house girls”. On rare occasions old women and “house boys” are also involved in offering this kind of labour. Other categories include drivers and other workers in farms and gardens.

All workers deserve to be treated fairly and respectfully at their place of work, with full labour rights and protections given to them. The law generally recognises a notice period. A domestic worker is entitled to notice in writing or a verbal notice for an illiterate worker. At least this should be explained to the domestic worker if he/she is not able to understand it in written form.