By Spy Uganda
The second edition of the Twende Zetu Butiama Pilgrimage Safari, a youth-led journey organized by Afrika Mashariki Fest (AMF), was officially flagged off today in Kampala by distinguished leaders from across the region. The initiative honors the legacy of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s founding father, while also celebrating 26 years since the revival of the East African Community (EAC).
Among the dignitaries present were Brig Gen Henry Isoke, Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, H.E. Amb. Maj Gen Paul Kisesa Simuli, Tanzania’s High Commissioner to Uganda, and H.E. Amb. Joash Maangi, the Kenyan High Commissioner to Uganda.
In his keynote remarks, Amb. Maj Gen Paul Kisesa Simuli, who served as chief guest, expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the First Lady, Mama Janet Museveni, for sponsoring the pilgrimage. He warmly welcomed participants to Tanzania and urged them to embrace the values of Mwalimu Nyerere.
“You carry the sole responsibility to join East Africa as one,” he told the youth, encouraging them to use the journey to reflect deeply on Nyerere’s ideals.
Echoing the call for unity, Amb. Joash Maangi declared that “the time for East African integration is now.” He encouraged the young pilgrims to see themselves first and foremost as East Africanists, emphasizing that regional integration is the key to thriving economies and poverty eradication.
Brig Gen Henry Isoke challenged participants to return from the journey renewed in spirit and committed to integrity. He reminded them of Nyerere’s incorruptible character and warned that corruption robs over 5% of global GDP annually.
“The fight against corruption begins with you. Live by moral values and integrity, and you will transform East Africa,” he urged.
On his part, Dr. Kisembo Tendo, CEO of Afrika Mashariki Fest, reflected on the first edition of the pilgrimage, which produced the Butiama Accord—a declaration presented to EAC Heads of State calling for deeper regional integration, the fight against corruption, youth investment, and the adoption of Kiswahili.
He said the second edition will go further by advancing Kiswahili and instilling EAC values among the next generation. Dr. Tendo also extended special thanks to President Museveni for his unwavering support in making the pilgrimage a reality.
The Twende Zetu Butiama Pilgrimage Safari continues to grow as a symbolic and practical effort to strengthen East African unity through the energy, ideals, and responsibility of its youth.
