President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has once again emphasized the critical need for political and economic integration across Africa as a pathway to sustainable prosperity. Speaking at the Ateker Cultural Festival in Soroti City, the President drew comparisons between the economic fortunes of the United States and those of Latin America, attributing the disparity to the levels of integration versus fragmentation within these regions. He argued that while the U.S. has thrived due to its cohesive political and economic framework, Latin America continues to struggle despite its wealth of resources, primarily due to its fragmented markets.
During his address, President Museveni articulated that the fragmentation of markets—exemplified by the small economies of individual nations like Uganda and Kenya—hinders growth and development. He stated, “If you fragment the market, you have this small market of Uganda, Kenya, that is where the problem is.” This perspective underscores the importance of creating larger, integrated markets that can facilitate trade, investment, and economic growth across the continent.
The Ateker Cultural Festival, which took place from November 27 to 29, 2024, was themed “Celebrating Shared Heritage, Forging a Path Towards Peace, Prosperity and Cultural Renaissance.” This three-day event aimed to foster unity and explore economic opportunities among the Ateker communities, which include groups from Uganda, South Sudan, Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. By bringing together diverse ethnic groups, the festival serves as a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration, reinforcing the idea that shared heritage can lead to collective prosperity.
In his remarks, President Museveni highlighted the significance of political and economic integration among communities with shared histories and cultures. He posited that unity among similar peoples can lead to strength and prosperity, while fragmentation results in weakness and poverty. He reiterated the ideological principles of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), which include Patriotism, Pan-Africanism, Socio-economic transformation, and democracy. These principles are intended to guide the nation towards a more integrated and prosperous future.
The President stressed that patriotism should extend beyond national borders, advocating for a love of Africa as a whole. He argued that the internal markets of individual countries are insufficient for sustainable development, necessitating a broader African market. This sentiment aligns with the NRM’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, which seeks to unite African nations for mutual benefit.
Socio-economic transformation was another key point in President Museveni’s address. He emphasized the need for communities to transition from traditional economies to money-based economies, which would enable individuals to hold their leaders accountable through democratic processes. This transformation is crucial for fostering a culture of accountability and governance that can drive development.
The President also reminded attendees of the three historical missions identified by Pan-Africanists: creating prosperity, promoting strategic security, and fostering brotherhood, or “undugu.” He articulated that prosperity requires active participation in the economy, while strategic security ensures that African nations can defend themselves against external threats. Museveni expressed satisfaction with recent developments, such as the revival of the East African Treaty and the establishment of the Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA), which aim to enhance market integration and economic collaboration across Africa.
Encouraging the current generation, President Museveni called for a concerted effort to ensure the survival and thriving of the African race. He noted that a strong sense of community and shared identity among the Ateker people is a step in the right direction, emphasizing that their cultural ties can help overcome the artificial divisions created by colonial borders.
The festival also featured remarks from various dignitaries, including Vice President Jessica Alupo, who highlighted the importance of unity and cultural heritage in fostering shared dreams among the Ateker communities. She noted that the festival serves as a vibrant testament to the reunion of communities that have been separated for over 136 years, celebrating their linguistic and cultural ties.
Former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, who serves as the Patron of the Ateker people in Africa, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his leadership in facilitating the festival. He emphasized the resilience and shared heritage of the Ateker people, reinforcing the idea that cultural celebrations can strengthen bonds among diverse groups.
Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi, also acknowledged President Museveni’s support for cultural initiatives, emphasizing that culture is a unifying force that can foster common values and strategies for development. The Paramount Chief of the Iteso Cultural Union, Papa Paul Sande Emolot, thanked the President for his efforts in promoting peace and security in the region, highlighting the potential for economic development within the Ateker community.
The event attracted a diverse audience, including ministers, members of parliament, diplomats, and cultural leaders, all united in the celebration of shared heritage and the pursuit of a prosperous future for the Ateker people and Africa as a whole. Through such gatherings, the hope is to cultivate a spirit of unity and collaboration that can drive the continent towards greater political and economic integration.
