The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is set to unveil the Raila Odinga Academy of Leadership, a new initiative aimed at nurturing young leaders and strengthening the party’s future.
Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, who also serves as ODM’s national chairperson, announced the development during the ODM Parliamentary Group meeting on Monday. She revealed that the launch will take place at a major youth event in Mombasa, with Raila Odinga himself presiding over the ceremony.
“One of the things we will be launching during the youth event is the Raila Odinga Academy of Leadership. This will happen so that we have a real academy that brings forth more leaders into the party,” Wanga said.
The announcement comes as ODM marks its 20th anniversary, a milestone Governor Wanga described as a testament to resilience and unity. “We are united, focused on the future, and determined to build on two decades of resilience. The work continues,” she added.
The Parliamentary Group meeting, chaired by Raila Odinga, brought together top ODM leaders from across the country. Among those present were Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, National Assembly Minority Leader Junet Mohamed, Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi.
During a build-up rally in Wajir, ODM leaders praised the party’s commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and democracy. Abdulswamad hailed ODM’s consistency, noting that “all top politicians in this country, including the President, are students of Raila Odinga.”
Governor Abdullahi emphasized Raila’s enduring influence in national politics. “Every government eventually turns to Raila Odinga to stabilize the country and help it govern. Even after 2027, no government will run without Raila,” he said.
The Raila Odinga Academy of Leadership is expected to serve as a platform for grooming young leaders, strengthening ODM’s grassroots base, and ensuring continuity in Kenya’s political leadership.
