Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has ramped up his efforts to secure the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) as the February 2025 elections approach. His diplomatic engagements have recently focused on North and West Africa, where he is soliciting support for his candidacy.
On Tuesday, Raila visited Chad, holding talks with President Mahamat Idriss Déby. During their meeting, Raila outlined his vision for the AUC, emphasizing the need for robust infrastructure, increased intra-African trade, and streamlined visa policies to facilitate the movement of people and goods across the continent.
“I emphasized the need to unite Africa using infrastructure, intra-African trade, and addressing visa policies to ease the movement of people and goods,” Raila stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter). He stressed that dismantling barriers to foster unity is crucial for amplifying Africa’s collective voice on the global stage.
Raila shared that his agenda, if elected, would also prioritize the youth, positioning them as the driving force behind innovation and transformation in Africa. “I envision vibrant cities buzzing with energy, where young entrepreneurs leverage technology and creativity to build dynamic businesses,” he said. Raila noted that President Déby expressed appreciation for this vision, particularly its emphasis on African-driven solutions to the continent’s challenges.
Diplomatic Engagements in Morocco
Earlier in the week, Raila was in Morocco, where he met with Nasser Bourita, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates. Their discussions in Rabat on Monday revolved around initiatives aimed at driving unity, growth, and development in Africa.
Highlighting his agenda, Raila noted, “Connectivity through infrastructure, visa-free movements, and intra-African trade will ensure sustainable development and prosperity for all African nations and create opportunities for our young people.” He underscored that these priorities are central to achieving the African Union’s goals of integration and self-reliance.
Following the meeting, Raila and Nasser held a joint press briefing where Raila called for African unity as a critical factor in strengthening the continent’s global standing.
Campaign Momentum Builds
Raila’s current tour is part of a broader campaign strategy to consolidate support among African leaders and key stakeholders. His vision focuses on addressing systemic challenges, including trade barriers, lack of connectivity, and youth unemployment. By advocating for “African solutions to African challenges,” Raila aims to position himself as the candidate capable of propelling the continent toward sustained growth and development.
The former Prime Minister’s agenda aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which seeks to build a prosperous and integrated Africa driven by its citizens. His proposals for improved infrastructure and streamlined movement policies resonate with the AU’s vision for an interconnected continent.
Upcoming TV Debate
As the campaign for the AUC chairmanship intensifies, Raila is set to participate in a televised debate with other contenders on Friday. This debate offers a platform for candidates to articulate their visions for the African Union and address pressing issues facing the continent. It is expected to draw widespread attention, further shaping perceptions about the candidates’ leadership capabilities.
Raila’s strategy of direct engagement with African leaders and his emphasis on tangible solutions are likely to feature prominently during the debate. His calls for unity and collaboration reflect his belief that collective action is essential for Africa to assume its rightful place in global affairs.
A Transformational Vision
Raila Odinga’s campaign for the AUC chairmanship is centered on transformational leadership. By focusing on infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and youth empowerment, he seeks to address longstanding barriers to Africa’s growth. His ongoing diplomatic tours underscore his commitment to forging partnerships and building consensus around his vision for a united and prosperous Africa.
As the February 2025 elections approach, Raila’s candidacy continues to gain traction, with his message of unity and progress resonating across the continent.
