Migrant Labour Dynamics and Agricultural Productivity in Uganda: An Impact Assessment on Rural Livelihoods

Uganda's agricultural sector is heavily reliant on migrant labour from rural areas to urban agro-industrial hubs. A mixed-method approach combining quantitative data analysis of household surveys with qualitative interviews to explore perceptions and practices related to migration patterns and their effects on farming activities. Migrant labourers contribute significantly (approximately 40%) to increased agricultural yields in certain high-value crops like coffee and tea, while maintaining traditional crop production levels for staple foods. The study underscores the critical role of migrant workers in enhancing Uganda's agricultural productivity without compromising rural food security. Policy recommendations include incentivizing farmers to engage with migrant labourers through training programmes, improving infrastructure connectivity between urban and rural areas, and promoting fair wage negotiations. Migrant Labour, Agricultural Productivity, Rural Livelihoods, Uganda