Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni has urged Uganda’s traditional and cultural leaders to promote patriotism, Pan-Africanism and national integration, saying tribal chauvinism and lack of integration weakened African societies.

Addressing cultural leaders at State House Entebbe during the Cultural Leaders Conference, Museveni said indigenous African societies had strong foundations in agriculture, livestock keeping, crafts, medicine and other specialised occupations, collectively referred to as Emyooga.

He said the National Resistance Movement (NRM) emphasises patriotism and Pan-Africanism to address the divisions that have historically undermined African societies.

“ You need Uganda and Africa for your prosperity,” Museveni said, urging cultural leaders to promote unity and integration.

Museveni also emphasised the importance of preserving Uganda’s cultural heritage, saying traditional leaders have a vital role in safeguarding indigenous languages, cultural practices and knowledge.

He called on cultural leaders to focus on cultural matters while leaving politics and administration to elected leaders.

The President further challenged what he described as a colonial mentality that leads Africans to despise their own heritage, urging Ugandans to appreciate and preserve their cultural identity.

Museveni said he looked forward to continued discussions with the cultural leaders on Thursday, November 5, as the conference continues.