Gov’t to repatriate victim of torture in Saudi Arabia

Minister of State for Labour, Employment, and Industrial Relations, Hon. Esther Anyakun. COURTESY PHOTO

Story by Uziah Tusaasire

The Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development is set to repatriate Prossy Nambalirwa, a Ugandan citizen who has been stranded in Saudi Arabia.

Nambalirwa’s distressing video, which went viral on social media, showcased her wounded body as she pleaded with the recruitment company to urgently facilitate her return to Uganda. The video highlighted her dire physical injuries and mental health struggles.

According to the Minister of State for Labour, Employment, and Industrial Relations, Hon. Esther Anyakun, the government intervened and rescued Nambalirwa from the residence where she endured torture. She was subsequently admitted to a hospital in Saudi Arabia.

“We had to ensure she did not travel while in critical condition, but now her health has improved. I will travel to Riyadh on Monday and return with her,” Hon. Anyakun stated, relieving Hon. Gorreth Namugga (NUP, Mawokota County South), who had raised Nambalirwa’s plight as a matter of national importance.

Namugga emphasized that Nambalirwa’s case is one of many involving Ugandans facing torture in Saudi Arabia. She urged the government to address the plight of migrant workers abroad.

“I implore Parliament to take interest in the experiences of Ugandans working abroad. While tax revenue from labour externalisation is significant, it should not come at the expense of citizens’ safety and welfare,” Namugga said.

She also called on the government to expedite the bill on labour externalisation and establish a database of migrant workers to facilitate monitoring and ensure their safety.

The Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa, instructed the Committee on Gender, Labour, and Social Development to follow up on Namugga’s proposals regarding the protection of migrant workers.

Written by Editor