By Our Reporter
Uganda has become a hotspot for foreign investors, but some individuals are abusing this privilege to exploit local businesses and workers. Two men, originally from the UK and the US, came to Uganda as Christian missionaries but have since shifted into business. They are allegedly using their influence and local connections to grab businesses from Ugandans while mistreating workers under their employment.
One of them, despite living in Uganda for years, has suspiciously acquired Ugandan citizenship. Reports indicate that he has allegedly been exploiting Ugandan workers with low pay and harsh treatment while taking over local businesses. Zukuka Uganda Coffee Company, originally owned by a Ugandan, was allegedly taken over by this individual, who now exports coffee while hiding behind charity work. Additionally, he is allegedly a key link for foreign NGOs operating in Eastern Uganda, raising concerns about hidden agendas behind their operations.
The second individual, JD Smith from Texas, USA, is criticised for allegedly forging visas to Uganda and exposing weaknesses in the country’s immigration system. He has also been accused of fraudulently selling an organization without considering the workers’ welfare. Currently, he is battling a legal case filed by the Ugandan government for allegedly refusing to pay workers’ salaries. Shockingly, despite these allegations, he continues to order the arrests of Ugandans, allegedly.
With such cases on the rise, it is time for Uganda to scrutinize and regulate foreign investors to prevent exploitation, business takeovers, and human rights abuses. Stay tuned for further revelations on this unfolding story.
