President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda delivered a powerful keynote address at the National Defence College (NDC) in Karen, Nairobi, during a special Lecture of Opportunity to participants of Course No. 28.
Joined by Kenyan Cabinet Secretaries Hon. Soipan Tuya (Defence) and Hon. Wycliffe Oparanya (Cooperatives and MSMEs), President Museveni offered a candid reflection on Africa’s development journey, chronicling its historical milestones, missed opportunities, and pathways to future prosperity.
In his characteristically direct style, Museveni attributed the continent’s persistent underdevelopment to what he termed “ideological bankruptcy,” external manipulation, unresolved geopolitical tensions, and inconsistent leadership.
He urged the continent’s youth to focus on productive and transformative engagements, calling them Africa’s most valuable asset. He further advocated for deepened regional integration as a pillar for socio-economic growth, stressing the need for unity driven by shared interests rather than short-term political gains.
Also in attendance were Uganda’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Gen Jeje Odongo, Principal Secretary for East African Community Affairs Dr. Caroline Karugu, and NDC Commandant Lt. Gen Juma Mwinyikai, among other senior government and military officials from both nations.
The lecture, described by attendees as eye-opening and deeply motivational, comes at a time when Africa is grappling with the twin challenges of youth unemployment and political instability. Museveni’s message of ideological clarity and strategic unity resonated strongly with the defence college’s mission of preparing leaders for national and continental transformation.
