Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has arrived in Arusha to take part in the 25th Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State of the East African Community. The high-level meeting brings together top leaders from across the region to discuss the future of cooperation and integration among partner states.
This year’s summit is being hosted in the United Republic of Tanzania under the theme “Deepening Integration for Improved Livelihoods of EAC Citizens.” The gathering is expected to focus on strengthening partnerships that can directly improve the lives of millions of people across the region.
Upon landing in Arusha, President Museveni was warmly welcomed by a delegation of officials from both Tanzania and Uganda. The reception was led by Patrobas Katambi, Tanzania’s Minister of Home Affairs, alongside Dennis Londo, the country’s Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade.
Several senior government officials also attended the reception ceremony. Among them were Samwel Shelukindo, Permanent Secretary in Tanzania’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as Mindi Kasiga and Robert Mbwasi, who serves as Deputy Permanent Secretary in Tanzania’s Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Uganda was equally represented by a number of senior officials who accompanied the president. These included John Mulimba, Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Affairs, and Fred Mwesigye, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania.
Other members of the Ugandan delegation present at the reception were Anne Katusiime, Head of the Uganda Consulate in Arusha, and Ronald Bigirwa, the UPDF Defence Advisor stationed in Tanzania. Their presence highlights the importance Uganda attaches to regional diplomacy and cooperation.
During the summit, heads of state are expected to review progress made in key pillars of regional integration such as cross-border trade, infrastructure development, and broader economic transformation. Leaders will also explore new strategies to strengthen cooperation and address emerging challenges affecting the region.
President Museveni’s participation signals Uganda’s ongoing dedication to the objectives of the East African Community. By engaging in these discussions, the country hopes to play an active role in shaping policies that promote shared prosperity, stability, and sustainable development for citizens across East Africa.
