Museveni calls for African unity at Ateker festival

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has renewed his call for political and economic integration as the path to sustainable prosperity in Africa, citing the success of the United States compared to the fragmented economies of Latin America.

“Political and economic integration create strength and prosperity, while fragmentation leads to weakness and poverty,” Museveni emphasized while addressing the Ateker Cultural Festival in Soroti City Sports Ground.

The three-day festival, running under the theme “Celebrating Shared Heritage, Forging a Path Towards Peace, Prosperity, and Cultural Renaissance,” unites Ateker-speaking communities across Ethiopia, Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Museveni highlighted its importance in fostering unity and exploring economic opportunities.

Drawing comparisons, Museveni explained how Africa’s fragmented markets, such as Uganda and Kenya, struggle to match the economic might of integrated regions like the U.S. He urged African leaders to embrace Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation, and democracy as guiding principles for the continent’s future.

“You cannot prosper by only focusing on your tribe. Africa’s internal market is insufficient; we need to integrate for economic growth,” he stated, urging citizens to prioritize shared African identity over local allegiances.

The President praised the Ateker people for their efforts to unite as a cultural and linguistic community, stressing that such unity is vital for achieving prosperity, security, and solidarity.

The Vice President, Jessica Alupo, described the festival as a celebration of heritage and unity after over 136 years of separation among Ateker-speaking communities. “This event strengthens the cultural and linguistic ties that bind us as Africans,” she said.

Former Ethiopian Prime Minister and Patron of the Ateker people, Hailemariam Desalegn, applauded Museveni’s leadership in making the festival possible, calling it a testament to shared resilience and cultural pride.

Museveni urged the Ateker communities to prioritize peace and development by working with governments to address issues such as disarmament and water scarcity. “With peace and water, transitioning from nomadism to a more stable way of life becomes easier,” he noted.

The event showcased cultural unity, strategic discussions on integration, and commitments from leaders to foster peace and prosperity across borders. Key dignitaries, including Ministers, MPs, cultural leaders, and members of the diplomatic corps, attended the celebrations.