President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on East African leaders to focus on economic and political integration, warning that failure to unite could hinder the region's development.
Speaking during a meeting with Rt. Hon. Amason Kingi Jeffah, Speaker of the Senate of Kenya, and his delegation at State House Entebbe, Museveni expressed disappointment over the slow pace of integration among member states. He stressed that collaboration is essential for sustainable growth.
“We must harness our strengths as a region. Disjointed efforts will not deliver the development we seek,” President Museveni said.
He highlighted Uganda’s progress in reducing reliance on imports from Kenya by developing its manufacturing sector, including products like processed milk and maize flour. Despite these strides, he emphasized the need for economic integration to maximize regional potential.
Museveni also advocated for economic specialization to enhance trade. He advised Ugandans to adopt sustainable farming practices, such as cultivating upland rice instead of swamp rice, and suggested importing rice from Tanzania in exchange for Uganda’s exports.
“This kind of trade builds mutual benefits and strengthens our economies,” he explained.
Speaker Kingi commended President Museveni for his steadfast commitment to East African unity. He noted that integration is vital for achieving lasting development in the region.
The meeting, attended by Kenya’s Ambassador to Uganda H.E. Joash Maangi and several Kenyan senators, reinforced the shared vision of a united East Africa. Museveni urged leaders to address common challenges collectively, positioning the region to compete globally.
“We need to act now to secure our future as a united and prosperous East Africa,” Museveni concluded.
