Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has once again sparked debate over the longstanding discussion of unifying East African nations into a political federation. Speaking in Kenya’s Siaya County during the Luo cultural celebrations, with Kenya’s President William Ruto in attendance, Museveni reiterated his call for political integration. This follows a similar appeal made months earlier at State House in Nairobi.
Museveni’s vocal advocacy has led to growing speculation among political analysts. Many view the long-serving Ugandan leader as positioning himself for the presidency of a potential East African Federation, leveraging his status as East Africa’s longest-serving head of state.
The East African Community (EAC), which consists of eight Partner States—Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda—has long harboured aspirations for deeper political and economic integration. However, stark differences remain regarding how and when such unification should occur.
While Uganda favours an immediate integration process, most member states advocate for a gradual approach. They argue that a phased plan would enable better infrastructure development and allow nations to adapt effectively. Museveni has criticized such delays, attributing them to missed opportunities, citing the failed East African Federation initiative of 1963 as a historic mistake.
In his recent remarks, Museveni pointed to the dictatorship of Idi Amin and the Rwandan genocide as examples of challenges that could have been mitigated through earlier regional unity. He warned that disjointed efforts and lack of collaboration continue to impede East Africa’s potential for sustainable development.
Political analysts suggest Museveni’s push for integration is also influenced by domestic politics. As Uganda approaches its 2026 elections, Museveni is reportedly preparing to endorse his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for the presidency of Uganda, while aiming for leadership within a unified East African Federation himself.
Despite Museveni’s efforts, scepticism lingers among partner states. While some leaders commend his vision, others view his persistent advocacy as a strategy to solidify his political legacy and secure influence beyond Uganda.
Time will tell if Museveni’s integration calls will unite the region or expose deeper divisions within the EAC. For now, the dream of an East African Federation remains both a tantalizing opportunity and a formidable challenge.
