A coalition of youth organizations and stakeholder groups from across Africa has thrown its weight behind Raila Odinga, endorsing his candidacy for the position of African Union Commission (AUC) Chairman. This move comes as the continent gears up for a leadership change at the helm of the AUC, with elections set to take place during the African Union Summit in February next year.
In a joint statement issued by the Pan African Youth Convention and a cross-section of major youth stakeholder groups, the youth leaders praised Raila Odinga’s deep-rooted Pan-Africanism, visionary leadership, and his extensive record of public service across Africa. According to the coalition, Odinga’s experience as Kenya’s former Prime Minister and his tenure as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development uniquely position him to address the continent’s pressing challenges, particularly those outlined in the Africa Union Agenda 2063.
“We firmly believe that the African youth bulge is the tide that will keep the African boat afloat as it roars towards transformation and progress, but this will only happen if talent and skill meet opportunity,” the statement reads. The group emphasized that Odinga has a proven track record of confronting Africa’s challenges with optimism, determination, and a fervent commitment to driving progressive change across the continent.
A Vision for Africa’s Future
Raila Odinga, a veteran politician known for his tenacity and commitment to democratic principles, has long been a significant figure in African politics. His Pan-African vision and dedication to regional integration resonate with many across the continent. As the AU’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development, Odinga spearheaded efforts to promote the connectivity of African countries, a crucial component of the AU’s broader agenda for economic and social integration.
The youth coalition highlighted Odinga’s authentic vision for Africa, which they described as “buttressed by superior ideas on how to steer the African Renaissance.” They noted that Odinga’s leadership style is marked by his refusal to shy away from the continent’s real challenges, coupled with a strong sense of optimism and a “fire burning in his belly” to initiate progressive change.
A Continental Coalition
The endorsement of Odinga’s bid for AUC Chairmanship by African youth leaders is particularly significant, as it reflects a growing recognition of the importance of youth involvement in the continent’s governance. The endorsement was backed by youth from 15 countries, including Sierra Leone, Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Zambia, Tanzania, Togo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Mozambique, and the Central African Republic.
This diverse support underscores the broad appeal of Odinga’s candidacy and the shared aspirations of African youth for a future marked by unity, economic growth, and social progress. The youth leaders emphasized that Odinga’s candidacy is more than just a personal ambition; it is a collective vision for Africa’s future that aligns with the hopes and dreams of the continent’s younger generations.
The Road Ahead
Raila Odinga’s bid for the AUC Chairmanship is not without competition. He is set to face off against Djibouti’s Mohamoud Youssouf, Anil Gayan from Mauritius, and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar. The position will become vacant in February 2025, when the current Chair, Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, completes his second term.
The AUC Chairmanship is a critical role that involves not only overseeing the daily functions of the African Union but also guiding the strategic direction of the organization as it seeks to address complex issues such as peace and security, economic integration, and sustainable development. As the elections approach, Odinga’s supporters are hopeful that his extensive experience, combined with his commitment to Pan-African ideals, will resonate with the member states and ultimately secure his election.
Youth as Catalysts of Change
The coalition of youth organizations backing Odinga’s candidacy reflects a broader movement within Africa to empower young people and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes. As the African Union continues to pursue its Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous and united Africa, the engagement of youth leaders in supporting Odinga highlights the critical role that young Africans are playing in shaping the continent’s future.
With the AUC elections just months away, the endorsement of Raila Odinga by Africa’s youth adds a dynamic and influential voice to the conversation, signaling a desire for leadership that is not only experienced and capable but also visionary and attuned to the aspirations of Africa’s young population. As the continent prepares for this pivotal election, the message from Africa’s youth is clear: they are ready to be part of the change they want to see, and they believe Raila Odinga is the leader to help them achieve it.
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