Kenya’s seasoned politician, Raila Odinga, has set his sights on a grand vision for Africa, as he campaigns for the prestigious African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson seat. With a storied career in politics and governance, Odinga is now aiming to bring his experience and passion to the continental stage, promising to usher in a new era of unity, resilience, and strategic resource management for Africa.
During the launch of Kenya’s bid for the AUC chairperson position at State House, Odinga emphasized the significance of the role and his readiness to embrace its challenges. “My selection to be Kenya’s candidate is not a one man’s ambition but an African’s journey to serve the motherland,” Odinga declared. He expressed his determination to create a diverse and inclusive leadership team, reflecting a continental outlook that prioritizes Africa’s collective interests.
A Vision of a Borderless Africa
One of the cornerstone objectives of Odinga’s campaign is the creation of a borderless Africa. In his speech, he articulated a dream of a continent where colonial-era borders and languages no longer divide its people. “I dream of an Africa where those borders and colonial languages no longer divide us. From the hills of Kenya to the deserts of the Sahara and Kalahari, from the lakes of the Great Rift to the rainforests of Central Africa, Africans have to be one,” he said. Odinga envisions a united Africa, where the free movement of people, goods, and ideas fosters economic growth, cultural exchange, and stronger regional cooperation.
This vision aligns with the broader objectives of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which seeks to integrate the continent both politically and economically. Odinga’s commitment to this cause resonates with many who believe that a unified Africa could better navigate global challenges and leverage its vast resources for the benefit of all its people.
Championing Climate Justice for Africa
Odinga also plans to address the pressing issue of climate change, a challenge that disproportionately affects Africa despite the continent’s minimal contribution to global carbon emissions. He criticized the current global climate policies that penalize Africa, arguing for fairer terms that recognize the continent’s unique vulnerabilities. “Africa is a victim of climate change. Africa suffers from drought and floods, yet Africa has emitted very little of the carbon gases that are polluting the world,” he remarked.
In his vision, Africa must negotiate as a unified bloc to demand compensation and support for the environmental damages it endures. Odinga’s stance on climate justice is likely to resonate with African nations grappling with the devastating impacts of climate change, from prolonged droughts to severe floods.
Harnessing Africa’s Resources for Africans
Another key aspect of Odinga’s platform is the effective management and utilization of Africa’s vast natural resources. He vowed to curb the exploitation of these resources by external players, ensuring that Africa itself reaps the benefits. “We need to make sure that Africa uses the resources that it has effectively. We need to also ensure that Africa trades with this wealth,” he stated.
This approach underscores a broader economic strategy that prioritizes value addition, sustainable development, and intra-African trade. By championing these principles, Odinga hopes to elevate Africa’s position in the global economy, transforming its natural wealth into tangible prosperity for its people.
A Continental Campaign with Broad Support
Odinga’s bid for the AUC chairperson seat has garnered substantial backing from key African leaders. Presidents Samia Suluhu of Tanzania, Paul Kagame of Rwanda, Salva Kiir of South Sudan, Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, and Felix Tshisekedi of Congo are among those who have pledged their support. Additionally, prominent former leaders like Nigeria’s Olusegun Obasanjo and Tanzania’s Jakaya Kikwete have also thrown their weight behind Odinga’s campaign.
As the AUC chairperson elections approach in 2025, Odinga’s vision for Africa’s future presents a compelling case for his leadership. With the continent at a crossroads, his platform offers a bold roadmap for unity, sustainability, and prosperity, promising to transform Africa into a global powerhouse guided by the values of resilience and shared purpose.
