President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged traditional and cultural leaders to promote indigenous knowledge, preserve African heritage and strengthen patriotism and Pan-Africanism as key drivers of Uganda’s prosperity.
Museveni said Uganda’s indigenous societies had strong foundations in agriculture, livestock keeping, crafts, medicine and other specialised occupations known as Emyooga, but tribal chauvinism and lack of integration weakened their potential.
“However, tribal chauvinism and lack of integration weakened us. That is why the NRM emphasises patriotism and Pan Africanism. You need Uganda and Africa for your prosperity,” Museveni said.
Addressing traditional and cultural leaders, the President emphasised the importance of national unity and continental integration, noting that Uganda’s development and prosperity are closely linked to the broader African community.
He also called on cultural leaders to play a central role in preserving indigenous languages, cultural practices and traditional knowledge.
Museveni, however, stressed that cultural leaders should leave politics and administration to elected leaders, saying their responsibility should focus on safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting indigenous values.
The President further challenged Africans to reject what he described as a colonial mentality that encourages them to despise their own heritage.
“We must reject the colonial mentality that makes Africans despise their own heritage,” he said.
Museveni said he looked forward to continued discussions with the cultural leaders, with engagements expected to continue the following day.
