TAKEAWAYS

• Flavia Namulindwa says working abroad is as challenging as life in Uganda
• Many Ugandans return home but quickly exhaust their savings
• She defied critics and successfully resettled in Uganda

Media personality Flavia Namulindwa has spoken candidly about the realities of working abroad, pushing back against the popular belief that life in Europe and America is automatically easier.

Speaking in an interview with Shalom Kawesi, Namulindwa revealed that the economic struggles Ugandans face at home are not very different from those experienced overseas. According to her, many Ugandans living abroad work under intense pressure just to make ends meet.

She explained that while opportunities may exist, the cost of living and demanding work environments often cancel out the perceived benefits. This, she said, is why many Ugandans who return home quickly run out of savings and feel compelled to leave again.

“Working overseas, especially in Europe and America, is not as easy as people think. Life there is just as hard as it is here in Uganda,” Namulindwa said.

“People come back with savings, but within a short time, it’s finished—and they’re already planning to return and start over.”

Namulindwa also reflected on her personal journey, noting that many doubted her ability to resettle in Uganda after spending time abroad. Some even predicted she wouldn’t last more than two months.

Defying those expectations, she says she has managed to rebuild her life locally and remains committed to staying. While she does not completely rule out returning abroad, she emphasized that her experience has given her a balanced perspective.

Her message comes at a time when many Ugandans continue to seek opportunities overseas in search of better livelihoods. However, her story highlights a growing reality—life abroad may offer promise, but it comes with its own set of challenges.