By BM
Ferry workers operating two critical inland water transport routes in Uganda have threatened to stage a sit-down strike starting Monday next week, citing salary cuts, delayed payments, and poor working conditions.
The potential strike is expected to disrupt services along the Bisina route, which connects Kumi District to Katakwi and the Karamoja sub-region across Lake Bisina, as well as the Zengebe–Namasale route, linking Amolatar District to Nakasongola via Lake Kyoga.
Close to 100 workers have raised concerns over a significant reduction in their earnings, with many reporting monthly salaries dropping from UGX 1.3 million to as little as UGX 200,000.
Several claim they have not been paid since May despite continuing to report for duty daily.
They also highlight the demanding nature of their work, which involves long hours from early morning until late evening without breaks for weekends or public holidays.
Operations continue under harsh weather conditions, exposing crews to heat, rain, and constant safety risks.
The situation reportedly worsened after ferry operations were transferred from the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) to the Ministry of Works and Transport, in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Service.
Workers allege that this transition led to confusion around job classifications and pay structures, resulting in temporary contracts, inconsistent employment terms, and reduced transparency in recruitment processes.
Many experienced and qualified personnel say they have been placed on lower salary grades despite possessing diplomas in boat building and maritime engineering, and having the capacity to operate, maintain, and repair vessels.
Beyond financial grievances, the workers describe the psychological toll of ongoing uncertainty.
Some report being unable to meet basic expenses, such as rent and school fees, while others claim to have been removed from payrolls entirely.
They warn that these pressures not only undermine their well-being but also pose risks to passenger safety and vessel integrity.
Ferry services on these routes are vital for the movement of people and goods, particularly in remote regions where alternative transport options are limited.
Disruption of operations would impact commuters, traders, health workers, and students, and could have broader economic consequences for the affected districts.
In response to the looming strike, the Ministry of Works and Transport urged ferry workers to remain patient while the government works through formal processes to address the issues.
Ministry Spokesperson Suzan Kataike acknowledged the disparities between former agency terms and current public service conditions, noting that affected workers transitioned into government service with full knowledge of the revised terms.
She confirmed that a proposal for a salary review specific to ferry crews had been submitted to the Ministry of Public Service, which holds authority over public sector salary structures.
Eng. Dr. Timothy Tebisingwa, Commissioner for Mechanical Engineering Services at the Ministry of Works and Transport, explained that some ferry workers are already on permanent and pensionable terms, while others remain on short-term contracts as part of a phased integration process.
This exercise follows a recruitment schedule set by the Ministry of Public Service and is expected to continue into the following year.
He noted that while mid-year pay adjustments are possible in exceptional cases, changes are typically aligned with the new financial year, with the final decision resting with relevant authorities.
Officials emphasized the essential role ferry services play in national connectivity and economic activity, calling for continued dialogue within established legal frameworks.
They assured that the workers’ concerns are being taken seriously and are under active consideration at the highest levels of government. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
