By Our Reporter
NAMISINDWA
Leaders in Namisindwa District have raised concern over the increasing number of young Ugandans who travel to Kenya in search of better opportunities but later die under unclear circumstances.
The concern was raised during the burial of Ivan Mabonga, who died in Nairobi last week under circumstances that remain unclear.
Namisindwa LC5 Chairperson, Bwayo Emma said the district has so far buried more than 34 people who died in Kenya, with at least three bodies currently still stuck in the country.
Bwayo called on the authorities to strengthen mechanisms for monitoring and protecting Ugandans who travel to Kenya in search of employment and other opportunities.
Namabya Sub-county LC3 Chairperson, Khaukha Joseph called for the profiling of Ugandans travelling to Kenya and the establishment of mechanisms to regularly check on their safety and welfare.
He said some Ugandans working in Kenya continue to complain of mistreatment by their employers.
Kenya remains a major destination for young people from Eastern Uganda, with many travelling there every day in search of employment and better livelihoods.
Meanwhile, Namome John, a Ugandan who helped transport Mabonga’s body from Kenya, said he has assisted in bringing back more than 13 bodies from Kenya within the past year.
Namome urged Ugandans travelling abroad for work to remain focused on the purpose of their journey. He noted that some Ugandans are accused of engaging in illegal activities and excessive drinking, which he said can negatively affect their reputation and relationships with employers.
