Dr. Joseph Ruyonga, Chairperson of the House Committee on Health, informed Parliament that Hoima Stadium workers were being pressured to undergo HIV/AIDS testing or risk losing their contracts. He described this practice as both unethical and degrading.
Parliament has condemned the reported mandatory HIV/AIDS testing of workers at Hoima Stadium, which is currently under construction for the 2027 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Dr. Jospeh Ruyonga, the Chairperson of the Committee on Health, presenting his statement on the forced HIV-AIDS testing
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“Workers found to be HIV/AIDS positive have faced termination and stigmatisation, which is not only illegal but also contradicts Uganda's labour laws and international human rights guidelines,” Ruyonga said during a plenary session chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
According to Uganda’s HIV/AIDS workplace policy, “Information on the HIV status of a staff member shall not be required, either at the time of application for employment or as a condition to maintain employment or for promotion.”
The policy also outlines how employers should treat workers with HIV/AIDS, which Ruyonga claimed was disregarded by the Hoima Stadium management.
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MPs listening to the report from Chairperson of the Committee on Health
Pulse Live Uganda
Ruyonga called on the government to intervene, demanding the reinstatement and compensation of workers terminated based on their HIV/AIDS status. He also emphasised the need to reinforce the implementation of the HIV/AIDS workplace policy and ensure continuous sensitisation for both employers and staff.
The Minister of State for Education and Sports (Primary Education), Joyce Moriku, pledged to investigate the matter, stating that it would constitute a criminal offence if found true.
