Museveni Hailed for Leadership in EAC Integration at Arusha Summit

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has been praised for his pivotal role in advancing regional integration and unity within the East African Community (EAC), as regional leaders convened for the 24th Ordinary Summit in Arusha, Tanzania. The summit, held under the theme “Promoting Trade, Sustainable Development, Peace, and Security for Improved Livelihoods,” celebrated 25 years of progress since the revival of the EAC.

Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan commended President Museveni’s contributions, describing him as a “teacher, restorer, and unifier” who has guided the bloc to its founding principles. “We hail President Museveni for not only succeeding the vision of our forefathers but also continuously championing the cause of unity and cooperation within the East African region,” she said.

The summit, which concluded on November 30, provided a platform for leaders to discuss trade, security, and development challenges facing the region. During the event, South Sudan President Salva Kiir handed over the chairmanship of the EAC to Kenya’s President William Ruto, who also lauded Museveni’s commitment to regional integration. “Mzee Museveni has been a cornerstone of the East African integration journey,” Ruto said.

The EAC, revived in 1999 under the leadership of Museveni, Kenya’s Daniel arap Moi, and Tanzania’s Benjamin Mkapa, now comprises eight member states and represents a combined population of over 300 million people. Leaders at the summit highlighted Museveni’s vision and steadfast efforts in ensuring the bloc remains a pillar of peace and prosperity in the region.

Burundi’s Vice President Prosper Bazombanza and EAC Secretary General Veronica Nduva also recognized Museveni’s enduring contributions to fostering unity and addressing regional challenges. Nduva described him as “a founding father of the modern EAC whose legacy continues to inspire us all.”

As the EAC looks toward deeper integration and collective development, leaders echoed President Suluhu’s call to protect the community, stating, “Our unity is our strength.” The summit reaffirmed member states' commitment to building a stronger and more interconnected East Africa.