Museveni Encourages Somalia to Embrace NRM’s Success for Prosperity and Security

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has encouraged Somalia to draw inspiration from the successful ideology of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) for the prosperity and strategic security of its citizens.

This call was made during a meeting on Monday with Uganda’s Ambassador to Somalia, Prof. Sam Tulya-Muhika at State House, Entebbe.

Museveni suggested that Somalia could benefit from crucial leadership lessons learned by the NRM, which successfully united a previously failed and divided state.

He proposed the formation of a students’ movement similar to the one initiated in the 1960s by the NRM, emphasizing the importance of intellectual integration without external influences.

The President stressed the significance of intellectual perception, referencing historical figures like Julius Nyerere and Tom Mboya, who championed the East African Federation without yielding to external pressures.

Reflecting on his experience in training Somali soldiers at Lake Albert, President Museveni highlighted the importance of motivated individuals driven by intellectual identity rather than financial motives. He encouraged the inclusion of those who are intellectually motivated by the identity of Somalia in a movement that is ideologically driven.

President Museveni further emphasized the role of empowered Somali youth in defending their country both militarily and ideologically, while underscoring the importance of patriotism and Pan-Africanism as driving forces for national unity and development.

Ambassador Muhika expressed gratitude towards President Museveni for the guidance and confirmed that Somalia is considering the establishment of a students’ movement. He highlighted the potential contribution of Somalis who have studied in Uganda, expressing optimism about their involvement in the initiative.

The discussions between the two parties covered diplomatic and political consultations, defense, and trade cooperation, signaling a collaborative effort to foster growth and stability in both countries. Somalia’s admission to the East African Community last year, making it the eighth member of the bloc, was also acknowledged during the meeting.