President Museveni recently met with delegations from Burundi, the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, and Tanzania at State House Entebbe on October 10, 2023. During the meeting, President Museveni stressed the importance of African nations working together towards a common goal of mutual development.
The meeting was organized in conjunction with Uganda’s 61st Independence Day anniversary, celebrated on October 9th in Kitgum District. Delegations from Burundi, the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, and Tanzania were led by Prosper Bazombanza, the Vice President of Burundi, Mr. Mohamed Sidati, Sahrawi Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Doto M. Biteko, the Deputy Prime Minister of Tanzania. The gathering took place at State House Entebbe.
President Museveni expressed his historical perspective, recalling a visit to Burundi in 1971 before the tribal conflicts erupted. He emphasized the need for political and ideological organization to prevent such conflicts. He commented on the artificial nature of the conflict between Hutu and Tutsi, pointing out that both groups were oppressed by the Baganwa, and there was a necessity for unity to combat oppression, rather than fighting based on tribal differences.
Additionally, President Museveni encouraged the spirit of togetherness and reconciliation in Africa and urged leaders to work towards integration. He highlighted the existence of regional blocs like the East African Community (EAC) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), as well as the ongoing formation of continental trade areas.
Prosper Bazombanza underscored the significance of celebrating Independence Day, indicating that it reflects the progress made by African countries despite social, political, and economic challenges.
Furthermore, President Museveni advised Arab countries in Africa to consider strengthening the formation of the Maghreb Union as a unifying body. He emphasized that changes in borders should occur peacefully through integration, suggesting that the Maghreb Union would promote social, political, and economic development.
Mohamed Sidati reaffirmed the need for the Maghreb Union, emphasizing its potential to drive significant development for Arab countries in Africa, both socially and economically.
The meeting also saw the attendance of Ms. Rebecca Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Community Affairs, and Mr. Jacob Oboth Oboth, the Minister of State for Defence, among others.
