Namibia’s President Nangolo Mbumba has endorsed Raila Odinga, former Kenyan Prime Minister, for the African Union Commission chairmanship. Odinga seeks support from 30 member states during his tour of southern Africa, focusing on continental unity, trade facilitation, travel ease, and youth empowerment. He envisions improved infrastructure and reduced visa barriers to achieve these goals.
President Nangolo Mbumba of Namibia has publicly endorsed former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission (AUC) chairmanship. Odinga, currently on a diplomatic tour across Africa, recently visited Mbumba to seek support for his bid. The tour began in southern Africa and includes stops in Zimbabwe and Mauritius within the past week.
During their meeting, Odinga shared that several friends encouraged him to run, stating, “I have been requested by some of my friends on the continent that maybe I should offer myself.” Mbumba interjected, affirming Namibia’s support by asserting, “Not maybe, we are telling you, you should.” However, when inquiries were made regarding the details of Namibia’s backing, presidential press secretary Alfredo Hengari stated that there would be no comment forthcoming.
For his candidacy, Odinga needs endorsements from 30 member states, amidst competition from two other candidates: Mahamoud Ali Youssouf from Djibouti and Richard Randriamandrato of Madagascar. Odinga articulated his vision to fulfill the aspirations of Africa’s founding figures by fostering unity across the continent, referencing the foundational speeches at Addis Ababa in May 1963 that called for a united Africa.
Odinga’s campaign emphasizes the importance of enhancing trade, travel, and overall unity within Africa. He noted that traveling across the continent poses immense challenges due to visa requirements and various barriers imposed by nations. To remedy this, he advocates for improved continental infrastructure, suggesting projects akin to a high-speed railway network connecting key regions from Cape to Cairo and Dakar to Lagos.
Moreover, Odinga highlighted the necessity of addressing youth issues, recognizing that approximately 70% of Africa’s population is under the age of 35. He proposed initiatives to expand internet access and promote the utilization of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the potential for technology to drive development on the continent.
This article discusses Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission chair and Namibia’s support for him, highlighting his diplomatic efforts across southern Africa. It outlines Odinga’s vision for the continent, which focuses on unity, infrastructure improvements, and empowering the youth of Africa, while addressing the challenges faced in travel and trade due to bureaucratic barriers.
In conclusion, Raila Odinga’s bid for the AUC chairmanship is gaining traction with key endorsements, including that from Namibia’s President Mbumba. His vision encompasses greater unity and trade within Africa, alongside significant investments in youth and technology. Odinga’s diplomatic tour aims to secure necessary support amid a competitive landscape for the chairmanship.
Original Source: www.namibian.com.na
