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The second batch of Ugandan migrant workers imprisoned in Saudi Arabia is returning home after being pardoned, thanks to diplomatic efforts between Ugandan and Saudi officials. The Ugandan Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development announced the news, following the earlier release of a first group of 40 workers.

The second batch of Ugandan migrant workers who had been imprisoned in Saudi Arabia is finally on their way back to Uganda after being granted a pardon by the Saudi government. This development comes after crucial diplomatic engagements between Uganda’s Minister of State for Labour, Employment, and Industrial Relations, Esther Anyakun Davinia, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Eng. Ahmed Alrajhi, which took place from 14th to 17th October in Riyadh.

“We are pleased to announce that following a recent meeting with Hon. Esther Anyakun Davinia and officials from the Saudi Government, the second batch of Ugandan migrant workers who were imprisoned in Saudi Arabia has been pardoned,” the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development said in a statement on Monday, 4th November. “They are now on their way home to Uganda.”

The first group of 40 Ugandans received their pardon on 2nd November, with the ministry announcing their return to Uganda with relief. “They are coming back home. The ministry is happy to announce that the first group of 40 Ugandans who had been held in prison centres across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will arrive back home this evening,” the ministry stated.

Saudi Arabia continues to be the leading destination for Ugandan migrant workers, with over 150,000 Ugandans employed there. A bilateral labour agreement signed in 2023 underscores the host country’s obligation to protect the rights of Ugandan workers. The economic impact of these migrant workers is substantial, as they contribute approximately US$900 million annually to Uganda’s economy.