MUSEVENI: FOREIGN ARMIES NOT WELCOME

Can brutal Western-backed African dictators ever say anything of value regarding Africa? Well, regarding foreign bases on the continent, maybe ...

Uganda has zero foreign military bases on its soil, which makes its President, Yoweri Museveni, a proud man. In this recent speech, he says African nations should take responsibility for their security and not rely on outside armies.

In fact, he warns they can make matters worse. And his remarks are backed up by figures. According to one report, before the U.S. went into Niger in 2002, there were less than 30 deaths caused by terrorism. That death toll now stands at over 7,000.

Overall, America has 29 bases located in 15 African countries (mainly in West Africa) that claim they’re needed to counter terrorism. France has bases in Djibouti, Chad, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Gabon. However, critics suspect their real job is to protect the interests of former colonial powers. And that’s seen French troops booted out of the Sahel following coups in Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso.

Uganda has recently fallen out with the West after being a close ally for decades, so it makes sense why Museveni is talking boldly of late. As the saying goes, better late than never or better still, even a broken clock is right twice a day.

What do you think of his comments?