On Friday evening, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga officially launched his bid to become the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
Addressing a room filled with African Union diplomats and permanent representatives, Odinga presented a forward-looking vision for Africa that champions unity, self-reliance, and sustainable development.
His proposal outlined a transformative approach aimed at addressing Africa’s social, economic, and political challenges, rooted in Pan-African ideals.
Odinga’s agenda is anchored in five key pillars: regional unity, infrastructure development, economic self-sufficiency, technological advancement, and environmental sustainability.
Declaring that “Africa has the tools to lift itself from its financial pit,” Odinga emphasized his commitment to leveraging Africa’s resources and capacities to drive progress.
A Vision for Peace and Unity
Identifying himself as a Pan-Africanist, Odinga underscored the importance of cohesive collaboration among Africa’s regional blocs.
Drawing inspiration from the European Union’s example of overcoming conflict to achieve unity, Odinga reiterated the significance of peace for economic growth.
He voiced strong support for the African Union’s “Silencing the Guns” initiative under Vision 2063, which aims for lasting peace across the continent.
Odinga further addressed Africa’s linguistic diversity, advocating for a shared African identity that transcends language barriers.
“We want to be Afrophones and speak as one people, as Africans,” he said, calling for unity across linguistic and cultural divides.
Youth and Innovation as Catalysts for Transformation
Odinga’s blueprint places Africa’s youth at the center of the continent’s economic evolution.
His vision leverages digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to empower young entrepreneurs in addressing challenges in agriculture, healthcare, and education.
“Picture vibrant cities with young entrepreneurs building dynamic businesses,” Odinga said, envisioning a future where Africa’s youth lead the continent’s progress.
Economic Self-Sufficiency and Boosting Intra-Africa Trade
Focusing on Africa’s economic independence, Odinga’s plan promotes the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a means of increasing intra-African trade.
He advocated for removing trade barriers and investing in infrastructure, including high-speed rail networks and an open-skies policy to connect the continent. “Under my leadership, AfCFTA will be more than a policy; it will be a reality,” Odinga declared.
He painted a vibrant picture of African industries and a continent seamlessly connected through trade, where citizens benefit from African-made products.
“Imagine an Africa booming with industry, where businessmen and women from Bamako can take the transcontinental high-speed rail to trade in Kampala,” he said.
Environmental Sustainability and Gender Equality
Odinga highlighted the need to protect Africa’s rich biodiversity and promote renewable energy to combat climate change. He also advocated for regenerative farming practices to ensure food security across the continent.
Central to his vision is gender equality. Odinga expressed a strong commitment to empowering women and girls in all sectors, foreseeing an Africa where “gender equality is not just an aspiration; it is a reality.”
Technological Advancement as a Catalyst for Change
In Odinga’s vision, smart cities across Africa would use AI to optimize resources, while expanding access to digital classrooms, telemedicine, and other critical services.
“In this future, we embrace technology as an enabler of progress,” Odinga said, calling on African leaders to ensure that “no African is left offline.”
A Broad Coalition of Support
Odinga has garnered significant support across East African nations and is believed to have the backing of over 25 countries. His campaign, led by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei, has emphasized Odinga’s experience in driving the AU’s Agenda 2063 goals.
“We present to you a leader who understands the need for endurance and resilience,” Sing’oei remarked.
Odinga is one of four candidates vying for the AUC chair, alongside Mahamoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti), Richard Mahitsison Randriamandrato (Madagascar), and Anil Gayan (Mauritius).
With endorsements from prominent leaders like Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, Odinga remains confident in his vision for a unified and prosperous Africa.
Algerian Ambassador to Kenya, Selma Malika Haddadi, who is also running for the AUC Vice Chair position, voiced her support for Odinga’s vision.