Uganda's President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has saluted the founding fathers of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) for laying a strong foundation in the global struggle against hegemony, describing the movement as a pillar for equitable global prosperity.

Speaking during the NAM Ministerial Review Summit in Kampala, President Museveni who also serves as Chair of the NAM, said the Movement’s origins were rooted in the fight against dominance and exploitation that took shape in the 1940s. He drew historical parallels, noting that previous attempts to impose hegemonic control — from medieval Europe to colonial expansion — had all eventually failed.

“I wish to salute the founding fathers of the Non-Aligned Movement who gave us a solid start in the fight against the influence of hegemony that emerged in the 1940s,” Museveni said. “Those who tried to dominate others only succeeded temporarily, and it always ended badly for them.”

Under the theme “Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Prosperity,” the Ugandan leader said NAM remains central to shaping a more balanced international order. He described himself as a “third-generation anti-colonial fighter from Africa,” expressing confidence that the developing world holds the promise of global renewal.

“I feel strongly that we may be the hope of the world,” he stated, commending the 121 member countries that entrusted Uganda with leadership of the Movement over the past year.

Museveni called for a renewed focus on what he termed “the world’s minimum common interests” — including trade, investment, tourism, and security — emphasizing cooperation over competition.

He argued that technological and industrial advancements by some nations should not be viewed as threats but as opportunities for others to benefit and grow. Citing past restrictions on African mineral processing, Museveni said global demand was often artificially limited to preserve the interests of a few.

“The rise of China and other emerging economies changed that landscape,” he noted. “The price of steel, for instance, rose from 200 to 900 dollars per tonne, creating opportunities for the rest of the world.”

President Museveni concluded by reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to NAM’s founding principles of mutual respect, sovereignty, and non-alignment, principles he said are vital for achieving true global prosperity.