Addis Ababa(Mogadishu24)-Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga is officially among the three candidates vying for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship 2025. This comes as Mauritius has exited the race, leaving Djibouti, Kenya, and Madagascar as the remaining contenders for the prestigious position.

Odinga, a prominent figure in African politics, recently unveiled his vision document outlining his roadmap for the continent’s progress. His candidacy emphasizes strengthening Africa’s unity, addressing economic challenges, promoting peace, and bolstering infrastructure development across the continent.

Key Elements of Odinga’s Vision

In his vision titled “A Stronger, United Africa,” Odinga focuses on:

1. Continental Integration: Advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade.
2. Peace and Security: Addressing conflicts, promoting stability, and supporting initiatives like “Silencing the Guns by 2030”.
3. Infrastructure Development: Prioritizing large-scale projects, including transcontinental railways, energy networks, and digital transformation.
4. Youth Empowerment: Creating opportunities for Africa’s growing youth population through employment, education, and entrepreneurship.
5. Climate Action: Promoting green economies, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy to tackle climate change.

A Tight Race for the Top AU Job

The competition for the AUC Chairmanship has intensified, with Djibouti and Kenya emerging as the frontrunners. Djibouti’s candidate, Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and Madagascar’s candidate remain in the race alongside Odinga.

Odinga’s long-standing leadership experience, coupled with his role as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development, strengthens his candidacy as Kenya seeks to secure the top AU position.

The election for the AU Commission Chairperson will take place on February 25, 2025, and the outcome is expected to shape the continent’s policy direction for years to come.