Local Government Workers Begin Nationwide Strike Demanding Equal Pay

Local government workers across Uganda officially began their nationwide strike at midnight on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, following a series of warning notices. The strike is in response to ongoing salary disparities and unfair pay increases within the civil service.

Leaders of the Uganda Local Government Workers’ Union (ULGWU) stated that they made several attempts to address their concerns with government officials, including those from the Ministry of Public Service, the Prime Minister’s office, and Parliament. However, these efforts failed to result in any concrete action, leaving workers with no choice but to take industrial action.

The union has expressed frustration over salary inequalities, with some civil servants receiving significantly higher pay than others who perform similar roles. This, they argue, has created division and frustration among workers, undermining morale within the public service.

ULGWU officials emphasized that their strike is a legally protected action, supported by both the Constitution of Uganda and international labor agreements. They warned that any efforts to intimidate or retaliate against striking workers would be unlawful.

The workers are calling on Cabinet and Parliament to use their influence to adjust the national budget to ensure fair and equal pay for all local government employees. The union reminded government leaders that it is local government workers who are responsible for implementing most of the nation’s policies and programs at the grassroots level.

The strike has already begun to impact local government services in several districts, with many offices across the country coming to a halt. This action follows similar strikes by arts teachers and TVET instructors, further highlighting growing discontent in Uganda’s public sector over salary issues.

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