Isn’t paternity leave a legal right?

What you need to know:

"Paternity is a statutory benefit that every male employee is entitled to provided your spouse is registered under the employee medical scheme or has been registered as the official wife with the Human resource department.” “accommodation”

My workplace does not grant paternity leave. Isn’t it a legal requirement? Should it be paid leave, who should incur the pay for a replacement during paternity and maternity leave? Bob

Dear Bob,
Under Section 57 of the Uganda Employment Act 2006, paternity is a statutory benefit that every male employee is entitled to provided your spouse is registered under the employee medical scheme or has been registered as the official wife with the human resource department.
Paternity leave is paid for by the organisation and note that it is on full pay.
How the organisation manages your absence during that time is a decision they have to make based on their need and demands.
Similar to annual leave, you should advise HR when you anticipate taking your leave so they can plan accordingly.
Note that paternity leave is also applicable “immediately after the delivery or miscarriage of a wife”.
Therefore, in the unfortunate circumstance your wife has a miscarriage, you are also entitled to a minimum four days of paternity leave.
In addition, the law allows you to take paternity leave once in a year.