It was a full-blown diplomatic parade at Kololo Independence Grounds on May 12 as powerful African leaders, former presidents and top government envoys flew into Kampala for President Yoweri Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony.

The high-profile guest list sent one loud message, Museveni still commands heavyweight influence across the continent.

Among the sitting Heads of State who graced the event were Samia Suluhu Hassan, Salva Kiir Mayardit, Félix Tshisekedi, Évariste Ndayishimiye, Francisco Chapo and Taye Atske Selassie.

Zimbabwe sent its First Vice President, Constantino Chiwenga, while Kenya was represented by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. Rwanda’s Prime Minister Justin Nsengiyumva also attended.

Venezuela VP Gabriela Jiménez Ramírez was also present.

Also drawing attention was Brahim Ghali, whose appearance underscored Uganda’s long-standing Pan-African and liberation movement ties. More than 30 foreign delegations gathered in Kololo.

The ceremony further attracted respected elder statesmen including former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn. Somalia's Sheikh Hassan also attended.

The packed VVIP section turned Kololo into Africa’s political capital for the day, with leaders exchanging greetings, handshakes and quiet diplomatic chats as thousands cheered on.

For Museveni, the turnout was more than ceremony — it was a powerful display of regional backing, liberation history and enduring political networks stretching from East to Southern Africa.