Kenya Rallies Behind Raila Odinga for AU Chairmanship, Speaker Wetang’ula Leads Lobbying Efforts
By Shadrack Nyakoe
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has intensified his campaign to secure the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Speaking during a courtesy call by Pan-African Parliament representatives on Wednesday, Wetang’ula emphasized Odinga’s suitability for the role, citing his proven leadership and ability to champion reforms that address the continent’s pressing challenges.
“Kenya has a strong candidate for AUC Chairperson. When you go back home, ask your Foreign Ministers and Presidents to support him,” Wetang’ula urged the delegation, which included representatives from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Zambia, Tunisia, and Kenya.
A Continent United for Progress
Odinga is vying to succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat, whose term ends in February 2025. Wetang’ula highlighted Odinga’s experience and commitment to advancing the interests of African nations, framing his candidacy as a pivotal moment for Africa’s progress.
The Pan-African Parliament team, currently in Kenya on a fact-finding mission, is exploring solutions to counter climate change and desertification.
Soil management has emerged as a critical focus, with Sakata Garry, Chairperson of the delegation, emphasizing the need for strategies that ensure effective soil management to bolster food security.
“Everything is being done on the soil, from mining to agriculture. Soil management is a matter that needs urgent redress,” said Garry.
Addressing Africa’s Resource Paradox, Wetang’ula echoed the delegation’s concerns, lamenting Africa’s paradox of being resource-rich yet economically underdeveloped. He underscored the importance of shifting toward sustainable soil management to unlock the continent’s agricultural and industrial potential.
“Africa lives on the soils. However, we produce what we don’t consume and consume what we don’t produce. This must change,” Wetang’ula stated.
He praised the Pan-African Parliament for initiating legislative development on soil management, calling it a step toward addressing food insecurity and mitigating climate change impacts.
Rain-Fed Agriculture and Future Strategies
Reflecting on Kenya’s recent food security progress due to consistent rainfall, Wetang’ula warned against reliance on rain-fed agriculture. He advocated for the adoption of engineered agriculture and water storage systems to ensure resilience against climate variability.
“Over the last 30 months, Kenya has been fortunate with rains, making us sugar-sufficient and self-reliant in cereals. However, when the rain stops, we’re back to square one. We need to embrace water storage and engineered farming,” he said.
Commitment to Soil Resuscitation
The Speaker also proposed addressing critical soil challenges, including erosion, acidity, and poor management practices. He pledged to support efforts by the Pan-African Parliament to create awareness and develop policies aimed at sustainable soil use.
As one of the pioneers of the Pan-African Parliament, Wetang’ula expressed confidence in the institution’s ability to influence policy and called for collective action to transform Africa’s agricultural systems.
The elections for the AUC Chairmanship are slated for February 25, 2025, with Odinga’s candidacy positioned as a unifying choice for the continent’s future.
