Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who is vying for the position of Chairperson of the African Union Commission, articulated his vision for connecting Africa through a robust infrastructure network during a meeting with Algeria’s Ambassador to Kenya, Mahi Boumediene, on Tuesday.
One of Raila’s key proposals is to make the River Nile navigable from Uganda to the Mediterranean Sea, thereby enhancing connectivity across the continent. As Chairperson of the AUC, Raila would wield significant executive power and influence over the Union’s infrastructure budget. Drawing from his experience as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development from 2018 to 2022, Raila is well-versed in the transport challenges facing Africa.
The River Nile, although one of the longest rivers globally, faces navigational obstacles due to crystalline rocks, resulting in significant cataracts. Raila envisions making the entire 6,650-kilometer stretch of the river navigable, thereby promoting intracontinental trade and connectivity.
Raila highlighted the shared history of armed struggle for independence and Pan-African ideals between Kenya and Algeria, emphasizing their mutual commitment to advancing the continent. He stressed the importance of tangible progress to demonstrate the benefits of independence for African countries, advocating for transformative infrastructure projects such as Transcontinental railways, TransAfrica highways, and African open skies initiatives.
While Raila did not disclose whether Algeria expressed support for his candidacy in the February 2025 elections, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) announced that he had received an invitation to visit Nigeria, indicating ongoing diplomatic engagements.
Raila enjoys support from East African Community (EAC) countries, as well as Ghana, Angola, and Guinea Bissau in his bid for the AUC Chairperson position.
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