President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni welcomed a delegation of African parliamentarians at State House Entebbe on Friday, emphasizing the necessity of African unity and introspection to counter the influence of imperialism.
In his address to the delegates, President Museveni underscored Africa’s susceptibility to exploitation due to internal weaknesses, urging a collective effort to address issues such as greed and disunity.
He analogized Africa’s situation to a scenario where self-inflicted vulnerabilities provide opportunities for exploitation, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and decisive action.
The meeting coincided with the conclusion of the three-day second African Inter-Parliamentary Conference, hosted by the Uganda Parliamentary Forum, which focused on family, values, and sovereignty. Conference chair, Hon. Sarah Opendi, highlighted the event’s theme of “Reaffirming our family and cultural values,” aiming to confront challenges like cultural colonization and external influences on African identity.
President Museveni reiterated the detrimental effects of identity-based politics, advocating instead for a focus on common interests and patriotism. Drawing from Uganda’s experience, he emphasized economic prosperity as a unifying force transcending tribal boundaries.
Additionally, President Museveni emphasized the historical resilience of Africans against external pressures, urging solidarity and cooperation among African leaders to safeguard sovereignty and values. He pointed to instances of resistance against colonialism and emphasized the importance of strategic security and recognition of African fraternity.
In response, delegates expressed solidarity with President Museveni’s stance, calling for greater transparency and collaboration to address challenges to African interests. Rt. Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, Speaker of the National Assembly of Gambia, commended President Museveni’s Pan-Africanist leadership, highlighting Uganda’s role as a champion of African values.
Hon. Bishop Jackson Kosgei of Kenya echoed sentiments of solidarity, praising President Museveni’s commitment to preserving African identity and values. He emphasized the importance of African leaders listening to and respecting the voices of their citizens and ensuring transparency in legislative processes.