To restore professionalism and discipline in Uganda’s workforce, Parliament has endorsed stringent penalties against unqualified and unlicensed human resource (HR) practitioners.
These provisions are part of the Human Resource Management Professionals Bill, 2025, a Private Member’s Bill introduced by Workers’ MP Hon. Margaret Rwabushaija. The Bill aims to regulate the HR profession through mandatory registration, licensing, and a strict disciplinary framework.
Under the proposed law, practicing HR without a valid practicing certificate will be a criminal offence, punishable by a fine of up to Shs 10 million or six months in prison. Forging documents or impersonating a certified HR professional will attract even harsher penalties—up to Shs 20 million or two years’ imprisonment.
MPs supporting the Bill said these tough measures are long overdue to weed out unqualified individuals who have tarnished the reputation of the HR profession.
“Last week, we lost a mother because she went to a fake doctor. Even in HR, we have quacks with no clue about managing people. This Bill will protect organisations from such individuals,” said Hon. Rwabushaija.
She was speaking at a joint meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, attended by the Minister of State for Labour, Hon. Esther Anyakun, and MPs from the Gender, Labour and Social Development and Public Service and Local Government Committees.
The Bill proposes that practicing certificates expire every December 31, with renewal required at least two months before expiry. However, some MPs expressed concern that the renewal window might be too restrictive.
“What happens if one misses the two-month deadline? Shouldn’t we provide a more flexible window?” asked Hon. Martin Ojara Mapenduzi, Chairperson of the Public Service and Local Government Committee.
Wakiso District Woman MP, Hon. Ethel Naluyima, supported the Bill but questioned whether it adequately addresses the realities of the informal sector and small enterprises.
“Many small businesses rely on diploma holders managing staff. Will this Bill lock them out? Should we not consolidate our labour laws into a more inclusive framework?” she asked.
In response, Minister Anyakun defended the proposed standards and timelines, arguing they are critical for preserving professionalism.
“Just like in medicine or law, there must be a clear standard. This Bill encourages young people to pursue higher HR qualifications,” she said.
The Bill also proposes the creation of a Human Resource Management Professionals Society to oversee licensing, enforce a code of conduct, and handle disciplinary matters. It further includes provisions to protect HR professionals from employer victimisation.
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