ODM leader Raila Odinga has intensified his campaign to become the next chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) by engaging with key stakeholders in North Africa. In a strategic move, Raila met Morocco’s Foreign Affairs Minister Nasser Bourita in Rabat on Monday, presenting his vision for the continent and laying out his agenda to enhance the effectiveness of the AUC.
Raila, who has positioned himself as a champion of Pan-African unity, outlined his plans to promote growth and prosperity across the continent. His key priorities include improving connectivity through infrastructure development, enabling visa-free movement, and fostering intra-African trade to drive sustainable development and create opportunities for Africa’s youth.
“Our deliberations focused on my vision for the continent and my plans to strengthen and enhance the effectiveness of the AUC if elected,” Raila said in a statement after the meeting. He emphasized the importance of unity among African nations to amplify the continent’s voice on the global stage.
During their joint press appearance, Bourita lauded Raila’s visit, describing it as an important step for Morocco to better understand his candidacy and plans for the AUC. This meeting underscores Morocco’s potential backing, a crucial boost as Raila builds his support base across Africa.
Strengthening Pan-African Bonds
Raila’s diplomatic engagements in North Africa come on the heels of his recent visit to Eritrea, where he was hosted by President Isaias Afwerki in Asmara. Afwerki publicly endorsed Raila’s candidacy, marking a significant milestone in the ODM leader’s bid. During the visit, Raila reiterated his commitment to strengthening Pan-African bonds by enhancing connectivity to facilitate the movement of people and goods.
“My vision is to strengthen the bonds of Pan Africanism through the AU by enhancing connectivity to facilitate the movement of people and goods,” he said.
Raila’s outreach has seen him embark on a whirlwind tour of African nations to rally support for his candidacy. With endorsements from 21 member states so far, Raila’s campaign is gaining momentum ahead of the AUC election scheduled for February 2025 during the 38th AU Summit of Heads of State in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
A Competitive Race
The upcoming election will see Raila face off against Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and Madagascar’s former Finance Minister Richard Randriamandrato. Initially, candidates from Somalia, Mauritius, and Seychelles had expressed interest but have since withdrawn from the race, leaving the three contenders vying for the coveted position.
If successful, Raila would become the fifth chairperson of the AUC, succeeding Moussa Faki, who has completed his two-term tenure. The position is pivotal in shaping the African Union’s policies and addressing key issues such as regional integration, peace, and development.
A Vision for Africa’s Future
Raila’s vision resonates with the aspirations of many African countries. By advocating for increased connectivity and trade within the continent, he aims to unlock Africa’s economic potential. His focus on youth empowerment through sustainable development reflects the pressing need to address unemployment and other challenges faced by the continent’s young population.
The former Kenyan Prime Minister also seeks to leverage his extensive experience in governance and diplomacy to push for reforms within the African Union. He envisions a more robust and efficient AU that can respond effectively to the challenges and opportunities facing Africa in the 21st century.
Building Momentum
Raila’s diplomatic charm offensive highlights his determination to secure the AUC chairmanship. His engagements with influential leaders in North and East Africa, coupled with his focus on Pan-African unity and development, position him as a strong contender. With the race heating up, his ability to secure widespread support will be crucial in determining his success.
As the February 2025 election draws closer, Raila’s campaign underscores his commitment to championing Africa’s growth and unity on the global stage. His growing endorsements signal a promising trajectory, but the race remains competitive, with his rivals also vying for a chance to lead the AU into a new era.
