Raila’s African Union Commission (AUC) Candidature Rekindles Pan-African Spirit
President William Ruto says former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is capable of safeguarding the unity and progress of the African continent.
The President said Mr Odinga’s candidacy as chairperson of the African Union Commission continued to receive huge support due to his strong record as a Pan-Africanist.
He expressed confidence that Mr Odinga’s leadership would promote peace across the continent, effectively manage conflicts and unlock the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
“We are very confident that MP Leila’s successful bid will change the destiny of our continent for the better in the future,” he said.
The President made the remarks at the 4th Pinillo Cultural Festival held in Bondo, Siia County on Thursday.
Ugandan President Museveni was the chief guest at the cultural event.
President Museveni said the region supports Mr Odinga’s candidacy for African Union Commission chairmanship.
He noted that those in power across Africa have the power to effect meaningful change on the continent.
“He will help us brainstorm, but the real power lies with us. We are in charge of these states. We are the ones who can say we are moving, we are moving,” the Ugandan leader said.
President Ruto supports African integration, noting that territorial borders should not be a barrier to trade and investment between countries.
Instead, he said countries must work together for the greater good of the continent.
“Without a prosperous East Africa, there cannot be a successful Kenya,” the president said.
His sentiments were echoed by President Museveni, who called on African countries to work towards unity of purpose to ensure inclusive growth and shared prosperity across the continent.
President Museveni stressed the need to revisit the continent’s historical priorities, which he identified as creating prosperity for its people, establishing strategic security against all threats and promoting continental integration.
Meanwhile, President Ruto announced that the government will build a fish landing site in Wehelum, Siia County at a cost of KSh100 million to support fishing communities.
He also opened Nyangoma Technical Training College Lamoji Campus.
“This campus will admit students immediately from January this year,” he said.
President Ruto commended counties for their role in preserving culture through cultural festivals.
Mr Odinga, for his part, called for African integration to facilitate the movement of people, goods and services, facilitate cross-border trade and promote inclusive growth.
He said it was time to realize the dream of the continent’s founding fathers, who envisioned a united Africa without artificial borders.
“These borders don’t have to be barriers to cooperation and working together,” he said.
Those present included the Governor of West Asia, James Orengo, Ochilo Ayacko (Migori), Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), Anyang Nyong’o (Kisumu) and Jonathan Bee (Uasin Gishu).
Other leaders include Cabinet Secretaries Opiyo Wandayi (Energy) and Rebecca Miano (Tourism).
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of the President of the Republic of Kenya.
