No Extra Pay for Enumerators for Extra Days, Says UBOS

Summary:

• The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) extended the National Census by six days but won’t pay enumerators extra. UBOS expects them to complete their tasks within the original timeframe. Some enumerators disagree, but UBOS emphasizes the importance of prompt completion.

KAMPALA, (Examiner) – The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) announced that it won’t provide additional compensation to enumerators despite extending the National Census by six days. Mr. Godfrey Nabongo, Deputy Executive Director of UBOS, disclosed this during a press briefing in Kampala on May 20.

UBOS extended the census period on May 19 to accommodate enumerators who encountered login issues during the exercise. Mr. Nabongo clarified that the enumerators’ contract specified the duration for completing the task. Therefore, UBOS expects them to utilize the extra time to finish pending work within the initial 10-day period. The extension does not entail extra payment, as compensation is based on completing the assigned task within the stipulated timeframe.

Encouraging all local governments to maximize these additional days, Mr. Nabongo emphasized the importance of completing the census exercise promptly.

Enumerators were originally receiving a daily allowance of Shs50,000, totaling Shs500,000 for the initial 10 days. Some enumerators expressed discontent with UBOS’s decision. Ms. Mercy Namyalo from Kawempe Division, Kampala, felt it unjust since delays were beyond their control. Conversely, Mr. Michael Agaba from Kitintale in Nakawa Division, Kampala, saw it as an opportunity to ensure complete enumeration in his area.

The 2024 National Housing and Population Census, initially scheduled from May 10 to May 19, aimed for comprehensive coverage. UBOS reported enumerating 10.4 million households, achieving a 98 percent coverage rate by midnight on Sunday.