Raila Odinga has officially announced his candidacy in the AUC chairmanship bid (the African Union Commission.) He discussed his vision for a unified and prosperous Africa. The former Kenyan prime minister unveiled his goals at a packed event on Friday, November 8, at the AU Multipurpose Hall in Addis Ababa, attended by prominent African leaders and dignitaries.
In his keynote address, Odinga introduced himself as a politician, businessman, engineer, family man, and long-time Pan-Africanism advocate. Drawing on his heritage as the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, a key figure in the Pan-African movement, Raila stressed his commitment to Africa’s growth and self-determination. “I believe Africa’s best time is now, and we must work together to achieve it,” he said, emphasizing the need for African solutions to African challenges.
Raila’s speech centered on the paradox of Africa’s vast natural resources juxtaposed with widespread poverty. He called for ending foreign dependence, arguing Africa’s future depends on its own intellectual and entrepreneurial resources. His message resonated with a call for African nations to break down internal divisions and unite for a shared future.
In his bid for the AUC chairmanship, Raila faces the challenge of securing the support of African Union member states. To win, he must either gain consensus or secure a two-thirds majority vote from heads of state. His candidacy has attracted support from several countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia.
Raila, former African Union High Representative for Infrastructure (2018-2023), promised to remain neutral and impartial if elected. He emphasized his belief in African unity, urging leaders to “imagine Africa” as a continent of opportunity and prosperity.
Raila’s extensive political experience and Pan-African credentials offer a bold vision for the African Union’s future.
