Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Tuesday held a meeting with the United Kingdom High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, to discuss the evolving international system, Kenya’s political landscape, and the long-standing relationship between Kenya and the UK.
In a statement following the meeting, Raila described the discussions as illuminating, noting that the UK is keen on shifting its engagement with Kenya from traditional aid to economic investment. This strategic change aligns with Kenya’s broader development goals, emphasizing trade and investment over donor dependence.
“I’ve had a very illuminating discussion with HE Neil Wigan, the United Kingdom High Commissioner to Kenya this morning, focusing on our country’s long-running relationship with the UK, the state of the Kenyan nation, and the evolving international system,” Raila stated.
Raila expressed his satisfaction with the UK’s approach, emphasizing the importance of economic partnerships that foster long-term growth rather than short-term relief. He also highlighted Europe’s determination to engage more with Africa on key international issues that shape global governance and economic stability.
“I was happy to learn that the UK is keen to strengthen ties with our countries through a shift from traditional aid to economic investment. I was also happy to hear from Mr. Wigan of the UK and Europe’s determination to maintain engagement with the international community, including Africa, on issues that have kept the international system working. Long live Kenya-UK partnership,” Raila said.
This meeting follows a previous engagement between Raila and Wigan in April 2024, when the ODM leader was advancing his African Union Commission chairmanship campaign. During that period, Raila also met other diplomats, including Norwegian Ambassador to Kenya Gunnar Andreas Holm and Australia’s High Commissioner Jenny Da Rin, to discuss political, security, economic, and humanitarian cooperation.
Apart from bilateral relations, Raila and the diplomats also discussed regional peace and stability, particularly the ongoing conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He reiterated his vision for expanded Pan-African cooperation, touching on free trade, integration, removal of non-trade barriers, global cooperation, and infrastructure development.
Raila’s continued engagements with international diplomats reflect his commitment to fostering global partnerships that benefit Kenya and Africa at large.
