Museveni Calls for Maghreb Integration to Strengthen Africa’s Security and Prosperity

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged Maghreb countries to unite to enhance strategic security, economic growth, and political stability across Africa.

Speaking to a delegation from the Algerian High War College at his Rwakitura home on February 28, 2025, Museveni emphasised that overcoming historical rivalries and fostering regional unity is key to ensuring long-term peace and resilience—not just in North Africa but across the entire continent.

“The Maghreb can be a powerful centre of gravity,” Museveni stated, reflecting on the region’s shared cultural and linguistic ties.

He recalled his past interactions with Libya’s late leader Muammar Gaddafi, stating that hearing Arabic during the meeting reminded him of conversations with the former Libyan leader.

Museveni lamented the ongoing instability in Libya, stating, “It has been over 12 years of chaos, and yet Africa is just sitting by. This is unacceptable.” He stressed that regional and continental integration is the only way for Africa to have a strong global presence and secure its future.

Algeria’s Role in Africa’s Liberation and Strategic Partnerships

Museveni praised Algeria’s historic role in Africa’s anti-colonial struggles, recalling how Algeria supported liberation movements across the continent after gaining independence in 1962.

“They took 20 fighters from Mozambique and trained them to fight the Portuguese. Algeria has always stood on the side of liberation,” he said.

The President also reiterated the importance of regional security cooperation, citing the East African Community as a model for strategic integration. He noted that integration efforts must go beyond economic ties, incorporating political unity and defence cooperation.

Africa’s Place in Global Power Struggles

Addressing Africa’s lagging technological advancements, Museveni warned that without integration, the continent would struggle to compete with global superpowers.

“The Americans, Russians, Chinese, and now Indians have reached space, while Africa is still lagging behind. Size matters,” he remarked, advocating for a stronger, unified African bloc capable of competing on a global scale.

On Africa’s representation at the United Nations Security Council, Museveni confirmed that a consensus had been reached for Africa to have two rotational seats.

“The question now is: Who will represent us? The best solution is to make these seats for the African Union as a whole, with representatives rotating every three years,” he proposed.

Criticism of African Leadership and Economic Policies

During an interactive session, Museveni criticised the “philosophical, strategic, and ideological bankruptcy” of some African leaders, arguing that these shortcomings are the root cause of Africa’s underdevelopment.

He highlighted the importance of private sector engagement in economic transformation, referencing Uganda’s history with expelled Asian business owners under Idi Amin’s regime.

“Our economy recovered when we reinstated the private sector, after learning from past mistakes,” he said.

Algerian Delegation’s Visit to Uganda

The 19-member Algerian High War College delegation, led by Brig. Gen. Benhamouda Rabal included five college staff and 14 students—11 Algerians and three from France, Palestine, and Uganda (Lt. Col. Hamza Nkata).

Brig. Gen. Rabal expressed appreciation for Museveni’s insights, calling them “rich information full of research.”

As part of their visit, the delegation toured key Ugandan institutions, including the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) headquarters, the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, and the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC).

The Algerian War College, a prestigious military training institution, prepares senior officers over two years for high-level command, staff, and leadership roles.