Namibia has officially endorsed Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Odinga is campaigning across Africa for support and emphasizes the need for unity, better trade, and improved travel across the continent. He proposes a high-speed rail network and enhanced internet access for Africa’s youth. Odinga requires 30 member states’ support amidst competition from two other candidates.
President Nangolo Mbumba has officially extended Namibia’s support to Raila Odinga, the former Prime Minister of Kenya, in his pursuit of the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship. During a recent courtesy visit, Odinga highlighted his campaign across Africa to secure backing for his candidacy, particularly in southern Africa, where he has visited nations such as Zimbabwe and Mauritius in the past week.
Odinga mentioned that several acquaintances prompted him to run for the AUC position: “I have been requested by some of my friends on the continent that maybe I should offer myself.” Mbumba reinforced this sentiment by stating, “Not maybe, we are telling you, you should.” The Namibian presidential press secretary, Alfredo Hengari, however, declined to comment on the specifics of Namibia’s backing for Odinga’s candidacy when questioned by the media.
For Odinga to succeed, he requires the support of 30 member states. He faces competition from two other candidates: Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for Djibouti, and Richard Randriamandrato, who has served both as Madagascar’s Minister of Economy and Finance and as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
In his address to the media, Odinga expressed his aspiration to fulfill the vision articulated by the founding fathers of Africa, referencing speeches from Addis Ababa in May 1963 that emphasized the need for a united Africa. He emphasized promoting unity, enhancing trade, and improving travel across the continent.
Odinga noted the difficulties of traveling within Africa due to stringent visa requirements and called for increased connectivity through infrastructure. He proposed major projects such as a high-speed railway network and simplified visa processes to facilitate easier movement across the continent.
Additionally, he indicated a strong commitment to addressing issues affecting Africa’s youthful population, which comprises 70 percent of the continent. Odinga’s plans involve enhancing internet access and leveraging artificial intelligence to empower the youth in the digital realm.
The African Union Commission (AUC) plays a crucial role in the governance and policy development of the African continent. The chairperson of the AUC is responsible for driving the agenda of the union, which seeks to foster unity and development among African nations. Raila Odinga’s candidacy reflects a broader intent to enhance cooperation across Africa and address pressing challenges such as youth engagement and ease of travel.
In conclusion, Namibia’s support for Raila Odinga in his bid for the AUC chairmanship highlights his commitment to enhancing unity and cooperation amongst African nations. As he seeks support from various member states, his proposals for greater connectivity and youth empowerment underscore the pressing need for collaborative solutions to common challenges. Odinga’s ambition aims not only to fulfill a vision of unity but also to pave the way for sustainable development across the continent.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
