Kenya’s African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson candidate, Raila Odinga, arrived in Cotonou, Benin, on November 20, 2024, as part of his campaign efforts.
Odinga held discussions with Benin’s Foreign Minister, Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, where he outlined his vision for Africa’s future.
“I arrived in Cotonou, Benin, where I held talks with Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari. I shared my vision on agriculture, infrastructure, and technology to unite and amplify the voice of Africa if elected as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC),” Odinga stated in a post on his X account.
During the unveiling of his manifesto in Addis Ababa on November 8, the former Kenyan Prime Minister committed to fast-tracking economic transformation, enhancing intra-African trade, improving infrastructure, achieving financial independence, and promoting gender equity and equality.
He also emphasized agricultural transformation and taking decisive climate action.
Odinga further pledged to prioritize education, women’s empowerment, and the fight against climate change.
Speaking during a luncheon with AU representatives, envoys, and international partners, he vowed to harness Africa’s potential to address critical issues such as poverty and inadequate education.
“Our people suffer because of bad policies. I will strive to change that. I now have the knowledge and ability to turn Africa’s wealth into prosperity, liberating our people and making them rich and powerful. I aim to make the 21st century an African century,” Odinga remarked.
The visit to Benin is part of a broader diplomatic tour designed to rally support from African leaders and stakeholders ahead of the AUC elections.
Odinga’s candidacy has received praise for its forward-thinking approach and focus on practical solutions to Africa’s enduring challenges.
The African Union Commission elections are slated for February 2025 during the African Union Summit.
Odinga will compete against Djibouti’s top diplomat Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, former Mauritanian Foreign Affairs Minister Anil Gayan, and Madagascar’s former Foreign Affairs Minister James Randriamandrato to succeed the current chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat.
