Recently, Uganda’s Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration arrested three German nationals for violating immigration laws. These individuals were found working in Uganda without the required permits, raising questions about the enforcement of immigration regulations in the country. The three Germans, whose identities have not been made public, were employed at the Uganda-South Sudan office of Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), a German-based non-governmental organization that operates globally. The trio was arrested around two weeks ago after it was discovered they had violated visa conditions.

Two of the individuals had entered Uganda using tourist visas, while the third held a student visa, allegedly under the pretext of studying at Makerere University. Instead of adhering to the conditions of their visas, all three were working for KAS, violating immigration laws that require foreign workers to possess valid work permits. While the Germans claimed they were on unpaid internships, investigations revealed they were receiving off-the-record salaries, which raised further legal concerns. Despite working in Uganda, they had failed to register for and pay “Pay As You Earn” (PAYE) taxes, mandatory for employees in the country, prompting authorities to take swift action.

When contacted, KAS neither confirmed nor denied the allegations of illegal employment practices. In an official response, the organization reiterated its commitment to adhering to Ugandan laws, stating that KAS is a law-abiding organization that ensures compliance with all relevant laws in Uganda, including immigration regulations. The organization emphasized that it operates within the legal framework and supports projects that benefit Ugandans, particularly through educational programs with local tertiary institutions.

KAS has also been accused of collaborating with Ugandan educational institutions to offer short-term courses for German nationals, who then reportedly engage in illegal employment. However, KAS defended its educational programs, stating they are intended to improve the livelihoods of Ugandans and not to provide a gateway for illegal employment.

Simon Peter Mundeyi, the spokesperson for the Directorate of Immigration, confirmed the raid on KAS offices, clarifying that this was part of routine operations aimed at ensuring compliance with immigration laws across various organizations. The Directorate conducts such inspections regularly as part of its core responsibilities. Mundeyi noted that multiple offices and factories were visited on that day to ensure none of the employees were in violation of immigration laws.

The fate of the arrested Germans initially remained uncertain as investigations were ongoing. Mundeyi mentioned that such cases are usually followed by formal court proceedings. However, reports indicated that the three individuals had already been fined $650 each and ordered to leave the country, reflecting Uganda’s strict stance on illegal employment.

KAS, the NGO involved in this case, is a German organization that supports democracy, the rule of law, and human rights initiatives worldwide. Its presence in Uganda and South Sudan reflects its commitment to fostering good governance in the region. While the arrest of its staff members raises concerns, it is important to note that the organization itself continues to adhere to legal frameworks in the countries it operates.