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Mudavadi Leads Kenya’s Push for AU Leadership
Kenya Monday launched a diplomatic campaign to secure the Chair of the African Union Commission (AUC) in the upcoming 2025 elections.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, addressing the African diplomatic community in Nairobi, emphasized Kenya’s commitment to using the leadership role to strengthen ties and foster trade and investment among African nations.
“Kenya is determined to play a leading role within the African Union,” Mudavadi said, highlighting the country’s dedication to building a “more interconnected and prosperous Africa.”
Trade and investment are central pillars of Kenya’s foreign policy, particularly within the framework of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Mudavadi highlighted Kenya’s active participation in the AfCFTA, citing successful trade partnerships with other African countries.
Kenya, a pioneer in implementing the AfCFTA, exported its first batch of goods – car batteries and tea – to Ghana in October 2022.
Beyond trade, Kenya has actively engaged in diplomatic exchanges over the past year, facilitating high-level visits and signing memorandums of understanding with various African countries.
“Africa forms the core of Kenya’s foreign policy,” stated Mudavadi, underlining the importance of collaboration and peaceful coexistence among African nations.
Kenya’s recent move to eliminate visa requirements for all African countries beginning in January 2024 was a move to fostering intra-African trade and unity. Mudavadi acknowledged challenges in implementing the new visa regime but assured diplomats of the government’s commitment to addressing them and ensuring a smooth transition.
The country has also pledged its support for the World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA21) replenishment, which aims to raise additional resources for Africa’s development needs. President William Ruto will host a Heads of State Summit in April, co-organized by the government and the World Bank, to garner support for this initiative.
Kenya has also taken a proactive stance on pressing global issues such as climate change and peace and security. Through initiatives like the Africa Climate Summit and hosting key regional meetings, the country seeks to amplify Africa’s voice on the global stage and address challenges that disproportionately affect the continent.
Mudavadi urged African countries to redouble their efforts to resolve regional conflicts, which have caused widespread humanitarian crises across the continent. He said there is an urgent need to address food insecurity and displacement caused by conflicts in over 15 countries, including four in the Horn of Africa.
Odinga Nominates Joho, Oparanya to Lead ODM in His Potential Absence
In a move that could reshape the leadership of Kenya’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), party leader Raila Odinga Thursday, March 7 nominated former Governors Hassan Joho and Wycliffe Oparanya as potential successors. This announcement comes amidst Odinga’s campaign for the prestigious position of Chairperson at the African Union Commission (AUC).
During a recent ODM recruitment event in Wajir County, Odinga expressed his full confidence in Joho and Oparanya abilities to lead the party, praising their potential to maintain unity within the ranks. “I am here with Governor Oparanya and Hassan Joho; the pillars of ODM. These two individuals, they are the ones who will bring us together. ODM is a party with a solid foundation,” Odinga told the rally attendees, adding that the strength of the party lies not in one individual, but in its collective leadership and membership.
Odinga, who also leads the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party, reassured his followers of his ongoing involvement and guidance, even if his bid for the AUC chairmanship takes him to Addis Ababa. “They will manage the party’s affairs even in my absence. Should they need advice, I’ll be available. ODM will remain unified,” he affirmed.
Speculation regarding Odinga’s potential departure from Kenyan politics to assume a continental role has been rife, following his announcement of the AUC candidacy. This development stirred considerable interest within the opposition, with several figures expressing their ambitions to take over the party leadership.
Oparanya, in particular, has been vocal about his qualifications for leading ODM, citing his extensive political experience. Speaking in Butere Constituency, Oparanya stated, “Should Baba (Odinga) move to Addis Ababa and take over the leadership of more than 50 countries, as might happen by next February, we’ll have enough time to prepare. I’m ready to embrace this opportunity and steer ODM forward.”
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