*By John Kusolo*
Recently, Lt. Gen. James Mugira, Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), delivered a powerful closing address at the East African Community (EAC) Multi-Experts Working Group meeting, held at Skyz Hotel, Kampala. The two-day meeting convened experts from EAC Partner States with the goal of formulating strategies for the establishment and co-ownership of raw materials processing industries essential for regional defence capabilities.
In his closing remarks, Lt. Gen. Mugira underscored the critical need for regional cooperation among East African nations to fully harness Africa's vast natural resources for the development of local defence industries. He articulated a resounding call to action, emphasizing that Africa must move from being a mere exporter of raw materials to a value-added economy, especially within the defence sector.
Gen. Mugira highlighted Africa's abundant natural resources, stating, "Africa is blessed with 40% of the world's gold, 90% of its chromium and platinum, and vast reserves of cobalt, diamonds, and uranium. Yet, we import raw materials and export primary products. It's time to add value locally." His remarks pointed to the paradox of Africa's wealth being primarily exploited by external powers, leaving the continent dependent on imports for its raw materials, including those crucial for military and defence manufacturing.
In a series of thought-provoking questions, Lt. Gen. Mugira challenged the experts gathered at the meeting:
Why can't Africa develop defence industries to process minerals and raw materials required for military equipment?
What stops Africa from adding value to its raw materials and manufacturing equipment locally?
How can EAC Partner States utilize joint research and development to promote the growth of the defence industry?
These questions reflected his broader vision of transforming the region's military-industrial capacity. He urged the EAC to seize the opportunity and lead the charge in turning Africa's resource wealth into robust, self-sufficient defence industries. Gen. Mugira stressed the need to go beyond rhetoric and implement practical solutions to overcome challenges that have historically hindered industrial progress.
A central theme of Gen. Mugira's address was the indispensable role of regional cooperation. He remarked, "The foundation for cooperation has been laid. We must build on this foundation to harness our natural resources for defence industries. We need each other, and we cannot afford to work in silos." His emphasis on unity among EAC Partner States was a clarion call for collaboration in areas such as research, development, and technology transfer. He underscored that only by working together could the region overcome the limitations of individual countries in developing world-class industries capable of competing on a global stage.
The EAC Multi-Experts Working Group meeting aimed to lay down the legal and technical frameworks that would enable the establishment of raw material processing industries within the region. These industries would focus on essential materials such as iron, copper, cotton, hides, lithium, and other minerals crucial to defence production.
The modalities discussed during the meeting included co-ownership of these industries by EAC Partner States, allowing for equitable access to resources, shared responsibilities, and collective benefits. The experts were tasked with developing actionable recommendations for the creation of these industries, focusing on how best to leverage the region's resources to serve local defence needs.
In his concluding remarks, Lt. Gen. Mugira expressed optimism about the future, urging participants to carry forward the momentum generated during the meeting. "We must build on this foundation," he said, "and work together to ensure that the vision we have discussed here becomes a reality." He reiterated the importance of innovation, research, and collaboration among Partner States, stressing that success in this endeavour would not only enhance the region's defence capabilities but also contribute to the economic empowerment of its people.
The closing of the EAC Multi-Experts Working Group meeting marked a significant step toward greater regional integration in the field of defence industries. With Gen. Mugira's leadership and the collective commitment of the EAC Partner States, the goal of transforming Africa's natural resources into sustainable, value-added industries may be closer than ever.
As the region moves forward, the foundation laid at this meeting will be instrumental in driving future developments, turning Africa's abundant raw materials into pillars of industrial strength and defence resilience.
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