Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni’s visit to Kenya on Thursday was marked by discussions on key issues affecting both nations and the broader East African region.
During the visit, Museveni and Kenya’s President William Ruto signed several agreements, reinforcing their commitment to regional cooperation and development.
“I am grateful to President Ruto for the invitation to discuss important issues affecting our two nations and East Africa. The agreements we signed during my visit carry the weight of historical context, aligning with our long-awaited missions. Over 60 years ago, Africa gained independence, yet the true depth of our historical mission remained unexplored (Uhuru na Umoja),” Museveni stated.
Museveni emphasized that the signed agreements are pivotal in working towards the prosperity of the people through wealth creation and market access. “When His Excellency invites me to Kenya and we sign all these agreements, we are working towards the prosperity of our people, through wealth creation and market access,” he noted.
The discussions highlighted the importance of political integration for the strategic security of the African continent. Museveni stressed that deeper political ties are essential for safeguarding the region’s future.
Reflecting on the historical aspirations of the East African Community (EAC), Museveni lamented the missed opportunities for federation and regional unity. He argued that had the EAC achieved its goals sooner, the region might have avoided numerous challenges, including poor governance in Uganda and genocides in Rwanda and Burundi.
“If the East African Community (EAC) had done what they were supposed to do, Federation would have been established many years ago. We would have made significant progress and possibly avoided challenges like the poor governance in Uganda, genocides in Rwanda and Burundi, and so on,” he asserted.
The visit marked a significant step towards realizing the long-standing vision of a united and prosperous East Africa. Museveni’s remarks emphasized the importance of historical context and regional cooperation in achieving these goals. The agreements signed during this visit are expected to bolster economic ties, enhance political stability, and foster a sense of brotherhood among East African nations.
The leaders’ commitment to these missions speaks to a renewed effort to address past challenges and create a brighter future for the region.
On his part, Ruto said, “Uganda is Kenya’s historical ally, a good neighbour and the largest trading partner.”
