By John Ikani
The idea of a unified East Africa under a single government has resurfaced, with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni reigniting the debate during a joint press conference with Kenyan President William Ruto in Nairobi on Thursday.
According to President Museveni, the East African Community (EAC) was envisioned for more than just economic cooperation.
“The EAC Treaty, in Article 5, clearly states our ultimate goal of establishing a political federation for East Africa,” he said.
“One government for the entire region is the ultimate objective.”
He expressed regret over the failure to establish an East African Federation in 1963, suggesting missed opportunities for regional progress.
President Museveni also highlighted the importance of a unified government for strategic security in a world facing growing geopolitical instability.
“Economic prosperity can be achieved through economic integration alone,” he acknowledged, “but true security requires political unity. A mere economic community falls short in addressing strategic security concerns.”
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President Ruto echoed President Museveni’s sentiments, suggesting the region could have been vastly different had the EAC not collapsed. “I concur with President Museveni,” he stated.
“The project we’re pursuing now, we almost achieved in 1963. A different East Africa could have existed if the EAC hadn’t fallen apart. However, the saying goes, ‘better late than never.’ I believe we’re still on time.”
Kenya initiated internal discussions on the East African political federation last year, signalling a renewed interest in the concept championed by leaders like President Museveni.
This reignited debate paves the way for potential discussions on a unified East African government in the future.
