The Chairperson of the African Union and President of Burundi Évariste Ndayishimiye has praised Ugandan President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his contribution to peace and stability in the Great Lakes region, describing him as an elder statesman whose leadership has shaped regional reconciliation efforts.
Speaking on behalf of African Heads of State who attended Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony in Kampala at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, the Burundian leader said Museveni’s re-election reflects Uganda’s commitment to peace, institutional continuity, and economic transformation.
“Your re-election stands as affirmation of the unwavering peace, stability and institutional continuity that Uganda has cultivated over the years,” he said.
Ndayishimiye credited Museveni with supporting peace and reconciliation in Burundi during periods of political instability, saying Uganda played a decisive role in promoting dialogue and regional stability.
“At a critical moment in our history, your leadership, wisdom and personal commitment played a decisive role in supporting dialogue, reconciliation and stability in my country,” he said.
Ndayishimiye added that Museveni’s influence extends beyond Uganda, noting that leaders across the Great Lakes region regard him as a senior statesman whose counsel continues to guide regional cooperation efforts.
“In our region, you are rightly regarded as an elder statesman, a wise and respected senior leader whose counsel continues to guide efforts toward peace, unity and cooperation among our nations,” he said.
The Burundian President also commended Uganda’s economic progress under Museveni’s leadership, citing investments in infrastructure, poverty reduction programmes, and sustained economic growth.
“Uganda has steadily positioned itself among the continent’s most promising emerging economies,” added Ndayishimiye.
The remarks were delivered shortly after Museveni took the oath of office before regional leaders, diplomats, government officials and invited guests attending the inauguration ceremony in Kampala.
The AU Chairperson said African leaders were optimistic that Museveni’s new term would strengthen regional cooperation, expand economic opportunities.
“It is my sincere hope that this new mandate will usher in even greater prosperity and opportunity to every Ugandan family,” he said. The ceremony attracted several African leaders and delegations.
Presidents present included Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia, Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan, Mozambique’s Daniel Chapo, Togo’s Faure Gnassingbé, South Sudan’s Salva Kiir Mayardit, Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic’sBrahim Ghali, and DR Congo’s Félix Tshisekedi.
The other heads of state who attended are: Gabon President Brice Oligui Nguema, and Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie.
Other delegations included the Deputy President of Kenya, Kithure Kindiki, Vice President Delcy Rodríguez of Venezuela, Prime Minister Édouard Ngirente of Rwanda, and the former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni shortly after being sworn in declared his new term in office as “Kisanja No More Sleep,” noting that the new term will be characterized by a relentless drive for development, describing it as a period of hard work for all Ugandans-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
