National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has thrown his weight behind former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga in his bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship. Wetang’ula made a passionate appeal for Odinga’s candidature, describing him as the most qualified to spearhead African nations’ reforms and safeguard their collective interests.
Odinga’s bid aims to succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat, whose term as AUC Chairperson ends in early 2025. Elections for the coveted position are scheduled for February 25, 2025.
Advocating for Raila’s Leadership
During a courtesy meeting with representatives of the Pan African Parliament at his Nairobi office, Wetang’ula urged African nations to back Odinga. “Kenya has a strong candidate for AUC Chairperson. When you go back home, ask your Foreign Ministers and Presidents to support him,” he appealed to the delegation, which included members from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, Zambia, Tunisia, and Kenya.
Focus on Soil and Food Security
The delegation was in Kenya for a fact-finding mission addressing soil management and its role in combating climate change and enhancing food security. Wetang’ula highlighted Africa’s untapped potential, noting that its rich resources have yet to transform the lives of its largely impoverished populations.
“Africa produces what it doesn’t consume and consumes what it doesn’t produce,” he lamented. The Speaker emphasized the need to move beyond rain-fed agriculture and adopt modern techniques like rainwater harvesting and engineered farming to secure sustainable food production.
Pan African Parliament’s Role
Sakata Garry, the Chair of the delegation, stressed the importance of soil health for agriculture and other economic activities, calling for urgent legislative initiatives on soil management. Though the Pan African Parliament holds an advisory role, its focus on legislation for soil preservation aligns with broader goals to mitigate climate change and ensure food security.
Wetang’ula assured the delegation of his support, proposing solutions such as combating soil erosion, addressing soil acidity, and promoting better agricultural practices. He cited Kenya’s recent agricultural successes during consistent rainfall but warned of the need for preparedness when rains fail.
Raila’s Prospects
Odinga’s track record as a prominent statesman and advocate for Pan-Africanism positions him as a strong contender for the AUC Chairmanship. Wetang’ula’s endorsement underscores Kenya’s determination to secure the leadership role, rallying African nations to unify behind a candidate with a vision for meaningful reforms.