President Museveni has clarified recent comments regarding access to the Indian Ocean, emphasizing that his statements were misunderstood and were not intended as a critique of Kenya or any other East African Community (EAC) member state.
Speaking to journalists in Mayuge, Museveni framed his remarks as part of a broader discussion on regional security and the need for deeper political and military integration within the EAC. He stressed that economic integration, while important, does not address strategic vulnerabilities faced by landlocked countries.
“How can I be hostile when I am promoting economic integration to Kenya? But the issue of strategic security is where I spoke about the Indian Ocean,” Museveni explained. “Even if we are together in the EAC, we don’t plan defense together.”
The president highlighted the risks posed by Africa’s fragmented military planning, pointing out that while the region has advanced in areas like the customs union and common market, it lacks a unified defense strategy. He warned that separate defense systems weaken East Africa’s standing in global strategic affairs.
Museveni advocated for the creation of an East African Federation that would unify the region’s militaries under a single command. He argued that a politically and militarily integrated East Africa would enhance bargaining power, strengthen security, and better prepare the region for emerging global threats.
“You can be rich but vulnerable. That’s why we need to go beyond economic integration and pursue political integration,” he said. “The Federation of East Africa would bring our countries together and form a very strong force, including militarily. It will create a center of gravity for the black race.”
The president concluded that regional disunity, particularly in defense, leaves East African nations exposed and limits their potential in global affairs.
