Since the early 2000s, a significant number of Ugandan women have migrated to countries such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman to work as domestic staff. While international organizations and human rights groups have frequently reported on the abuse, confinement, and exploitation these workers face—conditions sometimes described as modern slavery—the flow of labor continues unabated. Recruitment agencies in Kampala remain active, consistently attracting applicants despite widespread knowledge of the dangers involved.
Social scientists researching gender dynamics in Uganda conducted interviews with migrant women between 2018 and 2022 to understand the motivations behind these decisions. The findings suggest that the choice to migrate is often a strategic response to shifting social and economic conditions at home. As traditional marriage structures decline—partly due to the increasing difficulty men face in paying customary bridewealth—many women are seeking ways to secure their own financial futures rather than relying on male providers.
Participants in the study described the migration process as a means of "becoming somebody." One respondent noted, "First find yourself some money – marriage will always be there." By working abroad, these women aim to gain control over resources, build homes, and support their children independently. While many acknowledge the harsh realities of their employment, including racism and the loss of personal freedom, they often view the "Arab experience" as a necessary, albeit difficult, stepping stone toward a more stable life.
The study highlights a complex reality where women are not merely passive victims but active agents navigating global inequalities. While they do not explicitly aim to dismantle international power structures, their pursuit of economic independence is actively reshaping gender roles and household dynamics within Uganda. The researchers emphasize that addressing these issues requires both improved working conditions abroad and expanded economic opportunities within Uganda to ensure women can achieve their goals without enduring systemic exploitation.
Source: The Conversation
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