Cavendish University Uganda set the stage for an enlightening exploration of regional diplomacy with the launch of “The Foreign Policies of East African States.” Held on January 30, 2025, at the university’s main campus, this event attracted a diverse audience of scholars, government officials, political analysts and staff eager to delve into the intricate dynamics that shape East Africa’s foreign relations.
The book, published by Routledge Studies in African and International Relations series, offers a comprehensive analysis of how foreign policies intersect with domestic politics and global interactions. Edited by Dr Jude Kagoro, Dr Julian Frisinger, and Prof. Dr Klaus Schlichte from the University of Bremen in Germany, this pivotal work sheds light on the complexities and challenges faced by East African nations in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
The event inaugurated by Dr Alice Wabule, Dean of the Faculty of Socio-economic Sciences at Cavendish University featured prominent figures such as Gen (Rtd) Kale Kayihura, former Inspector General of Police; Andrew Mwenda, a renowned political analyst; and Hon. Margaret Muhanga, State Minister for Primary Healthcare. Their presence underscored the book’s relevance to both academic and policy-making spheres.
From Left to Right; Gen. (Rtd) Kale Kayihura, Hon. Margaret Muhanga, Andrew Mwenda and Dr Jude Kagoro
Dr Kagoro, a lecturer at Cavendish University highlighted key themes from the book, including the militarization of foreign policies in East Africa and the personalized nature of diplomatic relationships driven by ruling elites. He noted that Uganda’s foreign policy is often shaped behind closed doors at State House rather than through structured diplomatic frameworks.
The event fostered lively discussions as contributors shared insights from their chapters. Prof. Moses Khisa from the State University of North Carolina examined the intricate relationship between Uganda and Rwanda, while Dr. Edward Kaweesi from Makerere University led an interactive reading session that captivated attendees with his analysis of regional dynamics.
Dr Edward Kaweesi, Makerere University- Chapter Author
General Kayihura enriched the dialogue with his military experiences, emphasizing that “the best General is one who wins battles without fighting.” His reflections on conflict complexities provided a unique perspective on balancing security and stability in East Africa.
Andrew Mwenda sparked debates on governance and regional cooperation, urging scholars to address underlying causes of revolution in the region, while Hon. Muhanga called for a shift in narrative to highlight Africa’s positive elements rather than succumbing to negative portrayals often presented by Western media.
The book launch showcased a collaborative effort involving partners from Routledge Publishers, the University of Bremen in Germany, Cavendish University Uganda, Makerere University and the State University of North Carolina. This initiative not only highlights Cavendish University’s commitment to academic excellence but also its role as a hub for critical discourse on international relations. Signed copies of the book were donated to Cavendish University, ensuring that future generations can engage with this essential resource.
Book Signing by Editors and Authors