Museveni Calls for Pan-African Economic Integration to Quell Youth Unrest
Table of Contents
- Museveni Calls for Pan-African Economic Integration to Quell Youth Unrest
JINJA CITY, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has pinpointed the lack of wealth creation strategies and under-monetization of national resources as primary drivers behind the increasing youth uprisings across africa. Speaking at a lecture for senior military officers, Museveni advocated for Pan-African economic integration as the key to stability and prosperity on the continent.
Wealth Creation as a Foundation for stability
Addressing 52 senior military officers at the senior Command and Staff College in kimaka, Jinja City, Museveni emphasized the importance of shifting from donor-dependent policies to homegrown strategies focused on wealth creation. The officers, attending a year-long regional course, represented Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Kenya, South Sudan, and Malawi.
Did You Know?
In 2023, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aimed to create a single market for goods and services to deepen the economic integration of Africa, according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa [[1]].
From Subsistence to a Money Economy
Museveni highlighted Uganda’s economic change as an example. He noted that at independence, only 4% of Ugandans were involved in the money economy. By 2013, this figure rose to 32%, and currently stands at 67%. He stressed that increased participation requires financial literacy and strategic economic planning.
Key Sectors for Economic Growth
The President identified four critical sectors for unlocking Africa’s economic potential:
- Commercial agriculture
- manufacturing
- Services (including tourism and hospitality)
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
He cautioned against the continued export of raw materials, asserting that industrial capacity and meaningful employment can only be achieved by processing resources within Africa.
The Imperative of Economic Integration
Museveni argued that Africa’s fragmented markets impede growth and industrialization. He called for a unified East African and Pan-african market to support large-scale production and foster economic resilience. He linked economic unity to strategic security and long-term prosperity, urging Gen Z to advocate for East African integration rather than focusing solely on local issues.
Pro Tip:
Consider supporting businesses that prioritize local sourcing and value-added processing to contribute to the growth of Africa’s industrial sector.
A Call to action for African Leaders
Museveni concluded by urging African leaders and citizens to prioritize the transformation of subsistence economies into monetized systems driven by productivity, innovation, and integration. He stated that lasting peace and prosperity can only be achieved through the production and sale of goods and services, creating jobs and securing Africa’s future.
The President’s remarks come at a time when anti-corruption demonstrations have broken out in Uganda’s capital, reflecting growing unrest [[2]].Critics accuse Museveni of shielding corrupt officials [[2]], while supporters praise him for maintaining stability [[1]].
| Economic Indicator | Value at Independence | Value in 2013 | Current Value (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ugandans in Money Economy | 4% | 32% | 67% |
What steps can african nations take to accelerate economic integration? How can young Africans effectively advocate for Pan-African solutions?
Evergreen Insights: Africa’s Path to Economic Independence
Africa’s journey towards economic independence is rooted in its ability to leverage its vast natural resources and human capital. Historically, many African nations have relied on exporting raw materials, which has limited their economic growth and perpetuated dependence on foreign markets. The call for Pan-African economic integration is not new; it echoes the visions of early African leaders who sought to create a unified and self-reliant continent.
The success of this vision hinges on several factors, including good governance, investment in education and infrastructure, and the creation of a conducive habitat for entrepreneurship.Furthermore, addressing corruption and promoting transparency are essential to ensure that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably among all citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions About African Economic Integration
-
Why does President Museveni believe youth uprisings are increasing in Africa?
President Museveni attributes the rise in youth uprisings across Africa to the absence of effective wealth creation strategies and the underutilization of national resources.
-
What solution does Museveni propose for African nations?
Museveni advocates for Pan-African economic integration as a sustainable path to stability and shared prosperity, urging nations to move away from donor-driven policies.
-
Which sectors does Museveni identify as key to unlocking Africa’s economic potential?
Museveni highlights commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services (including tourism and hospitality), and information and communication technology (ICT) as crucial sectors for economic growth.
-
What is Museveni’s view on exporting raw materials?
Museveni warns that Africa must cease exporting raw materials to build industrial capacity and generate meaningful employment opportunities for its citizens.
-
Why does museveni emphasize economic integration?
Museveni argues that Africa’s fragmented markets hinder growth and industrialization, emphasizing the need for a united East African and Pan-African market to support large-scale production.
-
How has Uganda’s economy changed according to Museveni?
Museveni notes that at Uganda’s independence, only 4% of Ugandans participated in the money economy, which grew to 32% by 2013 and currently stands at 67%, highlighting the importance of full monetization.
Share your thoughts: How can Africa achieve sustainable economic growth and stability? Subscribe to World Today News for more insights on global development.
