Raila Odinga's Campaign for African Union Commission

November 25, 2024

Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has embarked on an intensive campaign across West Africa as he seeks to become the next Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). The election, scheduled for February 2025, will determine the successor to the current Chairperson. Odinga’s campaign has seen significant support, with numerous endorsements from African nations.

West African Tour Highlights

Cotonou, Benin (November 21, 2024)

Odinga kicked off his West African tour in Cotonou, Benin, where he was warmly received by Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari. In his discussions, Odinga shared his vision on key issues such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology, emphasizing the need for unity and a stronger African voice on the global stage. He expressed gratitude for the cordial relations between Benin and Kenya and the warm reception he received.

Accra, Ghana (November 23-25, 2024)

Continuing his tour, Odinga was hosted by the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat (AfCFTA) in Accra. He praised the progress made in the treaty’s implementation, noting that 48 AU Member States have ratified the agreement. Odinga highlighted his vision for a stable and prosperous Africa, emphasizing the importance of increasing intra-African trade through Regional Economic Blocks.

On November 24, Odinga expressed his appreciation to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of Ghana for the fruitful discussions regarding his AUC Chairmanship bid and continental issues. He acknowledged Ghana’s leading role in African affairs and its progressive stance on various matters.

During his visit, Odinga also had a notable interaction with the Vice President of The Gambia, Muhammad Jallow, and received a phone call from President Adama Barrow, who was touring the regions. They discussed his candidacy and vision for the AUC.

Dakar, Senegal (November 25, 2024)

Odinga concluded this leg of his tour with a visit to Senegal, where he was warmly welcomed by President Bassirou Diomaye Faye. Odinga shared his vision for the African Union Commission and discussed his candidacy. He appreciated President Faye’s insights on building a united, peaceful, and prosperous Africa. “Thank you H.E. President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal for the warm welcome in Dakar. It was an honour discussing with you my candidature for the Chairmanship of the African Union Commission and the vision I have for our continent. I was delighted to hear your ideas on how to build a united, peaceful and prosperous Africa,” Odinga posted on social media.

Togo and Côte d’Ivoire

Odinga’s campaign further saw engagements with President Faure Gnassingbe of Togo and President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d’Ivoire, where he discussed his AUC vision and received valuable feedback and support.

Nigeria (November 25, 2024)

Currently, Odinga is in Nigeria, continuing his tour and campaign efforts.

Campaign Endorsements and Competition

Odinga’s campaign has garnered significant support, receiving endorsements from a broad coalition of African countries, including Algeria, Angola, Burundi, Central African Republic, Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Seychelles, South Africa, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

His competitors in the race include:

Anil Gayan from Mauritius: No endorsements.
Mahamoud Ali Youssouf from Somalia: Endorsed by Somalia and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
Richard Randriamandrato from Madagascar: No endorsements.

Notably, Fawzia Yusuf Adam from Somalia and Vincent Meriton from Seychelles have withdrawn their candidacies.

Vision for Africa

Odinga’s campaign focuses on several key areas: promoting agricultural development, improving infrastructure, and harnessing technology to unite and amplify Africa’s voice globally. He envisions a transformed Africa where increased intra-continental trade fosters development and stability.

Odinga’s proactive engagement with African leaders and his comprehensive vision for the continent have positioned him as a formidable candidate for the AUC Chairmanship. As the February 2025 election approaches, his efforts to secure endorsements and build alliances are likely to play a crucial role in his bid for the position.

With a strong backing and a clear agenda, Raila Odinga’s campaign continues to gain momentum, reflecting his commitment to leading Africa towards a prosperous and united future.