• Raila Odinga’s campaign for AU Chairperson brings hope for unity, fairness, and a stronger Africa. His vision and leadership could shape a transformative future for Africa

The Election of the African Union Commission (AUC) in February 2025 is a pivotal moment for Africa. Of the candidates, Raila Odinga is the most interesting. As Kenya’s former Prime Minister and an experienced hand, he has the record and the vision to lead Africa into the future.

His tenure as the AU’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development demonstrated that he is a man of action for whom integration and growth on the continent are not empty slogans.

Raila Odinga Speaking during the launch of Kenya's African Union Commission (AUC) bid at State House. (Photo/Courtesy: The Kenya Times)

His priorities in office are plain: enhancing inter-African including fair representation for Africa on the UN Security Council and addressing regional security challenges.

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He has been a driving force behind major initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), arguing that Africa needs more than highways and railroads; it needs a shared potential.

Nonetheless, it’s not going to be an easy road. Odinga is competing against Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar. Both have solid support and their own ideas to the table.  

Since the election requires a two-thirds majority from AU member states, Odinga will have to garner support across a varied and sometimes fractious continent. 

Winning over different countries such as those in Francophone and West Africa, where Kenya does not hold as much influence, will be essential. But what distinguishes Odinga is his capacity to inspire. His calls for fairness justice and economic change echo the desires of youth across Africa who are hungry for big ideas and real change.

His long political career in Kenya has shown he knows how to navigate tough situations and bring people together a skill the AU could use right now.

This election isn’t just about picking a leader. It’s about shaping Africa’s place in the world. Whether Odinga wins or not, his candidacy is a reminder of the kind of leadership Africa needs: bold, ambitious, and focused on the future.