Speaking at the Mbale State Lodge, Museveni expressed frustration that being landlocked has denied Uganda crucial access to the Indian Ocean, undermining economic growth and strategic capability.
“We wanted to create a navy force on the ocean, but unfortunately, Uganda is landlocked,” Museveni said in a statement that has ignited political discussion across the East African Community (EAC).
He added that Kenya and Tanzania, which are closer to the ocean, have also not made sufficient collective efforts to open access that would support Uganda’s aspirations for maritime engagement.
The Ugandan leader argued that the region should move beyond traditional port-centric diplomacy and embrace deeper political and economic integration.
“So we decided to form the East African Federation to develop together,” he emphasized, suggesting that only a united federation could overcome the structural limitations faced by landlocked nations.
Museveni’s remarks come against a backdrop of earlier controversy, where his comments about the Indian Ocean sparked debate in neighbouring capitals and on social media.
Critics argued that his rhetoric risked misunderstanding, but Museveni later clarified that his aim was to highlight strategic cooperation and integration rather than provoke discord.
Kenyan officials, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, have responded by reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to EAC cooperation and dismissing any notion of confrontation, while underscoring ongoing diplomatic engagement to bolster regional ties.
As the region navigates these sensitive discussions, the debate over Uganda’s landlocked status and its implications for shared prosperity continues to resonate across East Africa.
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