Why should Africa suffer for foreign wars
By Our reporter
MAKERERE – Tanzanians living in Uganda echoed the call for unity, saying integration would ease trade and improve livelihoods.
The Tanzanian High Commissioner to Uganda, Maj. Gen. Paul Kisesa Simuli, has urged African countries to fast-track unity and reduce dependence on external forces, saying the continent has enough resources to sustain itself but lacks collective strength.
Maj. Gen. Simuli explained that Africa continues to bear the economic burden of conflicts happening far beyond its borders, highlighting the current war between Iran and America that has caused economic sabotage in African countries.
“Today, if you go to the market, prices have gone up. Fuel prices have increased and this is because of conflicts like those involving Iran and the United States of America. But why should Africa suffer because of wars that are not ours?” Maj. Gen. Simuli said.
He added: “We have oil, we have minerals, we have forests, Africa has everything. We are not supposed to suffer or cry. If we unite, we can protect ourselves and use our resources effectively.”
His remarks came at a time when Tanzanians living in Uganda joined their nation to celebrate Tanzania’s Union Day at their Embassy in Kampala.
Union Day, marked on every April 26, commemorates the 1964 unification of Tanganyika and Zanzibar to form the United Republic of Tanzania.
Maj. Gen. Simuli said the union remains a practical example of how political will can build a stronger and more stable nation.
“To unite means to build strength in leadership. Tanganyika and Zanzibar chose unity and that decision has kept Tanzania strong. Africa must take the same direction, push for regional integration,” he said.
Maj. Gen. Simuli further pointed to ongoing efforts under the East African Community as critical steps towards continental unity, noting that infrastructure projects such as the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, a proposed gas pipeline between Tanzania and Uganda, and the Standard Gauge Railway to connect neighbouring countries are key drivers of integration.
He also urged African countries to prioritise peace, warning that internal conflicts continue to undermine development.
“We are not supposed to fight among ourselves. We need peace if we are to develop and benefit from what we have,” he said.
Tanzanians living in Uganda echoed the call for unity, saying integration would ease trade and improve livelihoods.
Mr Stephen Kajuna, Executive Secretary of the Tanzanian Union in Uganda (UTU), said removing barriers would benefit business people across the region.
“Africa we are still backward a little, but by combining our efforts and coming together as Africa at large, trade will be easier. Right now some customs limit business movements,” Mr. Kajuna said.
Ms. Florence Mambea Sebagala, a Tanzanian living in Uganda, explained that Union Day symbolises unity and shared identity among East Africans.
“We are one people. This day reminds us that together we can move forward and achieve much more,” Ms. Mambea said.
She appreciated the Ugandan government for providing a peaceful and enabling environment for Tanzanians to work and do business in Uganda.
