ODM leader Raila Odinga recently held a significant meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria, South Africa, where the two leaders discussed Odinga’s vision for the African continent.
Odinga, who is vying for the position of African Union Commission (AUC) chair, used the opportunity to present his strategic plan for Africa’s future leadership and development.
“I am grateful for the warm reception I received from my brother, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, when I met him in Pretoria,” Odinga said in a statement following the meeting.
“We had an in-depth discussion about my vision for the continent, and I outlined my 10 priority areas, which I believe are essential for Africa’s growth and prosperity if I am elected as the next chair of the African Union Commission.”
One of the key themes discussed during the meeting was Odinga’s commitment to strengthening African unity and cooperation.
“My plan for the African Union Commission focuses on deepening economic integration across the continent, fostering regional peace and security, and tackling critical issues such as climate change, governance, and the empowerment of youth,” Odinga explained.
“We must come together as a continent to build innovative solutions to our challenges, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, education, and healthcare.”
Odinga also shared his vision for transforming the AUC into a more dynamic and effective institution.
“The African Union Commission must play a central role in facilitating deeper collaboration between African states.
We must leverage our continent’s resources to meet the sustainable development goals, and I envision the AUC as an institution that champions inclusive, transparent, and accountable leadership, with a strong focus on empowering women and youth,” he emphasized.

In response, President Ramaphosa expressed his support for Odinga’s vision and acknowledged the former Kenyan Prime Minister’s longstanding dedication to Africa’s development.
“Raila Odinga has shown unwavering commitment to advancing Africa’s cause,” President Ramaphosa said.
“His leadership experience and dedication to peace and development across the continent make him a worthy candidate for the chairmanship of the African Union Commission.
I believe he has the ability to lead Africa towards a more united and prosperous future.”
The meeting between Odinga and Ramaphosa underscores the growing support for Odinga’s candidacy for the AUC chairmanship.
As Odinga continues to engage with African leaders and stakeholders, his bid is gaining momentum.
His extensive leadership experience and deep understanding of Africa’s socio-economic and political landscape position him as a formidable contender for the role.
“This is a critical time for the African Union,” Odinga noted. “We need visionary and committed leadership to tackle the challenges our continent faces. I am ready to work with all African leaders to advance the goals of peace, prosperity, and unity for our people.”
The meeting also highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between Kenya and South Africa and the mutual interest in fostering regional collaboration to drive Africa’s growth and development. With Odinga’s candidacy for the AUC chair, there is a renewed sense of hope for Africa’s future under bold and transformative leadership.
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