He made the proposal on Thursday, November 20, while addressing journalists at Mayuge State Lodge in Uganda.
Museveni said the idea would help East African countries build a strong defence that can protect the region from external threats and reduce future conflicts.
Museveni explained that the new federation would combine the armies of several countries including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
According to him, a united force would be more powerful and better prepared to deal with challenges than individual armies working alone.
“I want the formation of the East African Federation. The Federation of East Africa would bring together our countries here, and it would be a very strong force,” Museveni said.
He added that such unity would create a “centre of gravity” for African countries that often face difficulties because of their small size and limited military strength.
During the press briefing, Museveni questioned why African nations remain vulnerable to foreign interventions.
He pointed to the situation in Libya, where a foreign power launched attacks while other African countries watched helplessly.
He argued that this was a clear sign that the continent needs stronger cooperation to protect itself.
“Who can rescue Africa now? The other time Libya was attacked by foreigners, and we were just here looking. To guarantee our future, we must look at the political integration of East Africa,” he said.
Museveni’s remarks came only weeks after he issued strong statements directed at Kenya.
On November 8, he warned that Uganda might face a future war with Kenya if it continued to experience challenges accessing the Indian Ocean.
He argued that access to the sea is important not only for trade but also for national security.
“Some of the countries have no access to the sea, not only for economic purposes but also for defence purposes. You are stuck. How do I export my products?” Museveni asked.
He complained that Uganda had been involved in long discussions with Kenya regarding railways and pipelines, yet progress had been slow.
He then added, “But that ocean belongs to me. I am entitled to that ocean. In the future, we are going to have wars.”
These comments caused concern in the region, with many leaders calling for peaceful engagement between the two countries.
Kenya and Uganda have enjoyed close ties for many years, cooperating in trade, security, and East African Community programmes.
However, Museveni’s recent statements have raised questions about the stability of this partnership.
Despite the tension, Museveni insists that unity is the only way forward. He believes the East African Military Federation would not only strengthen defence but also promote peace, cooperation, and long-term stability.
As discussions continue, the proposal is expected to attract mixed reactions from governments, security experts, and citizens across the region.
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