Earlier this year, a Ugandan military delegation led by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defense Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), visited Moscow, Russia, where they paid their respects at the mausoleum of Vladimir Lenin, the founder of the Soviet Union.
According to General Kainerugaba, the visit to Lenin’s mausoleum was a significant moment for the delegation, comprising African patriots who drew inspiration from the Russian revolutionary leader.
“Lenin is the grandfather of all revolutionaries on earth,” General Kainerugaba wrote on social media. “For us, African patriots, it’s like visiting Jerusalem.”
In the picture shared on his X platform, Gen Kainerugaba can be seen with Lt Gen Charles Okidi the Commander of the Airforce and Brig Gen Dan Kakono the Commander of the UPDF Field Artillery Division.
The visit underscores the strong historical ties between Uganda and Russia, as well as the shared values of socialism and anti-imperialism that have defined their relationship.
The delegation’s trip to Moscow was aimed at strengthening military cooperation and exploring new areas of collaboration between the two nations.
General Kainerugaba’s comments highlight the enduring legacy of Lenin’s ideas and the impact they have had on revolutionary movements worldwide, including in Africa.
The visit to the mausoleum also highlights the enduring spirit of solidarity and cooperation between nations that share a common vision for a more just and equitable world.