• Raila Odinga has urged Africa to empower its youth, create local opportunities, and embrace change
  • He highlighted the continent’s wealth in resources, the need for practical education, and self-employment
  • He pointed these out at Kabarak University’s 20th graduation ceremony
  • Odinga encouraged graduates to be agents of change and work toward transforming Kenya’s future.
The African Union (AU) chairmanship candidate, Raila Odinga, has urged Africa to embrace change, focus on empowering its youth, and create more opportunities within the continent instead of encouraging the pursuit of life abroad.

Speaking at Kabarak University's 20th graduation ceremony on Friday, December 20, 2024, Odinga stressed that young people hold the key to Africa’s future and must be supported to realize their potential.

"Africa is the richest continent in terms of raw materials. The irony is that it is also the poorest in terms of the living conditions of its people, and this is what we must change," said Raila. "Our youth can be a blessing or a curse. Let's empower them to become a source of wealth."

He expressed concern about the growing trend of young Africans leaving the continent in search of better opportunities abroad. Odinga noted that Africa is rich in resources and opportunities, which can create jobs if properly utilized. He emphasized the need for young people to explore self-employment and innovation within the continent.

"Today, the youth of Africa are desperate. You can see some youths drowning on ships trying to reach Europe in search of greener pastures when we can actually create greener pastures here in Africa," added Odinga.

The AU chairmanship candidate called on universities to provide practical training that equips students with skills needed for the job market. He highlighted the role of education in solving unemployment, a challenge that continues to affect many African nations.

"Train them so that they can become highly skilled and a source of wealth in our country. This is a major challenge, but we must overcome it."

Odinga, the Chief Guest, celebrated the Kabarak University Class of 2024 for their achievements, commended the institution’s leadership, and urged graduates to be agents of change. He encouraged them to seek opportunities, create prosperous futures, and work towards transforming Kenya for generations to come.