Let's pursue a prosperous African future, MUBS Principal appeals to Leaders

NAKAWA - Prof. Moses Muhwezi Principal, MUBS during his keynote speech at the 26th Leadership and governance seminar, provided a compelling narrative of various aspects, ranging from military training at Ssingo military training school for university entrants in 1991, which he believes contributed to the development of "battle-hardened cadres."

Prof. Muhwezi stressed the importance of a united Africa, highlighting commonalities among Africans such as shared interests, morals, love for culture, and linguistic diversity. He cautioned against adopting a negative self-view, attributing such attitudes to a colonial mindset that undermines the potential of Africans. Additionally, he discussed how colonial borders and economic hinderances perpetuated division among African nations.

Drawing inspiration from Kwame Nkurumah, Prof. Muhwezi underscored the backwardness of tribalism and urged students to embrace pan-Africanism. He shared personal connections with the legacy of Nkurumah, commemorating him annually during his time at Nkurumah Hall at Makerere University with other students during the end of year party.

The speech delved into the challenges facing Africa, emphasing the need to confront historical issues and break free from the shackles of wars, coups, diseases, and poverty. Prof. Muhwezi, who also serves on a panel for resource mobilization and strategy COMESA, defended Kwame Nkurumah's strong Leadership, stating that it was necessary during a time when many Africans were ignorant and lacked Nkurumah's vision.

Addressing the youth directly, Prof. Muhwezi urged them to consider the worthiness of their battles. He provided President Kaguta Yoweri Museveni as an example of a Leader with a vision for peace and stability. He encouraged students to listen to Museveni's 1986 speech, highlighting it's pan-Africanism essence. Prof. Muhwezi advocated for nationalistic battles, discouraging trivial issues like exam retakes, little salt in food leading to strikes. He advised students to form groups, study the Parish Development Model, and propose corrections to government for support. He emphasized the importance of utilizing youth for positive change, cautioning against I dividualism, blame games, gossip, and selfishness. He said there is a disconnect between academia and the public, citing complex language and lack of Afrocentric research. Prof. Muhwezi expressed concerns about the impact of technological advances of the youth, urging them to focus on objectives, truth, and avoid deception.

Prof. Muhwezi warned against drifting away from Pan-Africanism and celebrated the pan-African spirit present in many African Leaders in a bid to achieve African union's African Agenda 2063.

In conclusion, Prof. Muhwezi's address was a passionate call to action for African youth. It encompassed a range of topics, from personal experiences, to broader issues of pan-Africanism, youth empowerment, and the challenges facing the African continent. Prof. Muhwezi's message resonated with a plea for unity, self-reflection, and the pursuit of a shared, prosperous African future.