Kenya Archives

Inside Kithure Kindiki’s First 100 Days as Deputy President – Success or Strategy?

Outside the Kenyatta International Convention Centre Professor Kithure Kindiki swore his oath of office as Deputy President of Kenya on November 1 2024 and the event created a thrilling buzz of enthusiasm. Many people viewed his rise to the country’s top ranking position as the necessary end to unstable political times which ushered in a leadership based on dedication and structured management and public service.

A Deputy President Unlike Any Other

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The impeachment of Rigathi Gachagua cleared the path for Kindiki to begin his role through an emphasis on professional achievements ahead of political commitments. The presidential support of William Ruto toward Kindiki stands in contrast to the disruptive relationship between Gachagua and the president. Kindiki maintains absolute support for his leadership while working to advance national growth instead of battling for political dominance.

The supporters of Ruto consider this appointment as his plan to gain an effective and dependable deputy who emphasizes performance above internal conflicts.

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The true sign of development success appears in what people actually do.

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During his initial 100 days as top minister Kindiki has proven himself crucial for sustaining government projects across the country. He has traveled through numerous regions of the country to venture into development projects which are delayed and break through administrative obstacles while promising continued development to local communities. By actively leading road construction in Kieni and Embu infrastructure improvements he has changed the possible achievements of a Deputy President.

The establishment of county development oversight teams operates directly through Kindiki’s office for the purpose of improving accountability. The teams gather frequently to evaluate the development of critical projects which helps to distribute government resources evenly among all regions. Delegates in Taita Taveta received an assurance from him that he wants to return yearly to deliver reports about progress made along with outstanding items and their justification.

Security Reforms: A Legacy in the Making

Kindiki achieved recognition for his work as Interior Cabinet Secretary both through his fight against crime as well as his efforts to transform the police force before his promotion to Deputy Presidency. Security occupies the highest priority in his professional activities since he took office while he pays special attention to the banditry hotspots of Northern Kenya. Security agency coordination efforts by Kindiki have brought down bandit attacks to a point where citizens praise his work.

The President’s Most Reliable Messenger

The appointment happened during a period when President Ruto needed a solid and efficient method to communicate government decisions. The administration experienced sharp criticism from Gen-Z protesters in 2023 which demonstrated its inadequacies in public relations.

To explain government policies the administration placed Kindiki in a position that requires him to translate relevant information to public audiences. The forums convened by him in various counties allow direct discussions with community leaders as well as professionals and religious groups about government plans.

Given the objective of this new approach the government intends to establish better relationships between officials and constituents to ensure citizen involvement and response to their questions.

Balancing Loyalty and Personal Ambition

Kindiki demonstrates a masterful capability in walking a tightrope because he continues to support his boss yet he builds his individual political platform. Instead of public political conflict he chooses to support Ruto in his leadership without facing off with him in public.

He shows independence through his strategic actions. The president relies on his deputy for important events yet Kindiki has created his own initiatives which prove his position as an independent leader.

Current speculation about Kindiki’s position remains unclear because he avoids public political confrontations while supporting Ruto’s leadership.

Kindiki used his unexpected December vacation for two weeks as his first leave period during his time at the Interior Ministry. The public speculated about his position in the administration when he did not attend both the president’s New Year’s address and the funeral of National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s mother. Externa watchers raised such claims about his demotion but the Interior Minister denied all assertions as completely unfounded.

He continues to concentrate on running efficient government programs together with development initiatives at the forefront of his direction.

What’s Next for Kindiki?

The Deputy President will face his biggest challenge ahead in preserving this initial drive so he can manage expected political drama that accompanies high office.

Guidance from Ruto alone will determine the stability of his political alliance. The challenge for him will be to avoid political interference as he works to achieve his promised goals. Kindiki demonstrates potential political ambitions to seek the presidential position even though these plans remain unconfirmed

Only time will tell. This Deputy President spends his first 100 days focused on work rather than political activities according to his current office performance.

The current political environment often features ambitious motives competing with actual public service yet Kithure Kindiki brings a pristine approach to his work. Time will reveal which path Kithure Kindiki will follow: political pressure or his original path of office. The nation of Kenya continues to observe the political developments happening under his leadership.

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IEBC Selection Panel Takes Office

Chief Justice Martha Koome presided over the swearing-in ceremony which officially established the seven-member Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) selection panel on Monday.

Panel Composition

President William Ruto appointed the panel members, who include:

Kiome Lindah Gakii

Prof. Oloo Adams
James Evans Misati
Nicodemus Kipchirchir Bore
Amb. Koki Muli Grignon
Carolene Kituku
Dr. Nelson Makanda
Tanui Andrew Kipkoech
Fatuma Saman

Mandate and Expectations

A supreme responsibility of the panel is to manage the recruitment process of future IEBC commissioners to safeguard Kenya’s electoral process.

Chief Justice Koome emphasized the importance of selecting individuals with:

Unblemished integrity

Impartiality and independence

Professionalism aligned with constitutional principles

Koome pointed out to the panel that as the IEBC stands as Kenya’s electoral guardian they must maintain stringent standards.

Facilitation by Parliament

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula ordered the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) to give the panel everything needed for effective operations. He requested that selection procedures complete their task swiftly to solve public anxieties and adhere to constitutional deadlines.

Court Clearance

A recent High Court decision cleared the path for President Ruto to move forward with his nominee selections after dismissing petitions against the panel’s formation.

Background and Context

Verification of the choice board formed to consider appointments became a matter of public analysis because of delayed processes and rumored institutional intrusion. The IEBC had to undergo major reforms because previous electoral processes generated numerous controversies and public pressure kept mounting.

The installation of the panel is expected to lead to the IEBC’s reorganization so public trust in the electoral system can be rebuilt before new polls arrive.

Kabogo takes charge of ICT docket, sets tone on right use of social media

The newly appointed Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Information, Communication, and Digital Economy William Kabogo has called on Kenyans to approach social media more responsibly especially with increasing criticism of President William Ruto’s government.

While speaking in Nairobi on Saturday after receiving a Handover from the prime CS Musalia Mudavadi, who had been the acting ICT minister, Kabogo stressed on ways to enhance sensitization of data privacy and rights of those in the digital sector.

Internet Etiquette

Kabogo said this is not in any way to curb freedom of speech but in order for people to act right on what they post online. He used an example of a recent deepfake video showing President Ruto in a coffin, while aiding from a recent AI technology trend.

“What maybe considered hilarious at 20 may have dreadful repercussions at a different age,” Kabogo noted, saying people needed to be held responsible for the decisions they take on the web.

Combating Misinformation

Kabogo further said that the ministry would defend laws prohibiting the abuse of technology as the freedom of speech was encouraged.

Dutch Royal Visit Unaffected

Speaking at his Vihiga backyard, Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi also dismissed some of the concerns on the State visit, by the Dutch Royals, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima that is due in March 18th. Nevertheless, in relation to the trending hashtag #CancelStateVisit, Mudavadi came out to debunk information that the campaign would change diplomatic relations.

“We stand assured that this fellowship with the Netherlands is cordial,” Mudavadi said. “They do not reign state relations or invitations via official channels are issued over social media.

The president’s plan is aimed at improving international relations.

The appearance of the current Dutch royal couple in Kenya shows that the two countries have very good relations and trade with the Netherlands, investment and cooperation. Kabogo and Mudavadi stressed the fact that the constructive topical participation is needed in social media sites to help Kenya progress and gain a better worldwide image.

This change of guard symbolizes a new direction for the ICT docket managed by Kabogo with emphasis on the tension between Liberty of speech and being responsible citizens in the digital age.

Kenya Displays Diplomatic Achievements of 2024

Kenya has identified the year 2024 as a year of unprecedented diplomatic gains in a sign of the country’s growing influence on the international scene. The performance highlights were presented by the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs and, Prime Cabinet Secretary Dr. Musalia Mudavadi during a session held at the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs offices in Nairobi.

Building up the bilateral and multilateral cooperation

During the year, Kenya strengthened its multilateral relations through diplomatic diplomacy, led by President Ruto with key landmark initiatives. Notable highlights included:

A 15 billion Japanese shillings in the Olkaria Geothermal Project Project.
The decision on granting the Kenyan government a status of a major non-NATO Ally of the US in order to increase defense and trade partnership.
Bilateral infrastructure cooperation with Uganda and Tanzania, on SGR development and issues to do with barriers to trade.

These engagements bear testimony to the fact that Kenya has a strategic place in development of regional and International cooperation elements.

Economic Diplomacy: A Catalyst for Growth

Kenya used economic diplomacy to mobilize large amounts of capital that would be used to finance infrastructure projects and generate employment. Key achievements included:

Coca-Cola has agreed to pump $175 million in the business to grow its capacity.
This commerce deal is a $274 million credit with the China Development Bank hooked on the construction of rural roads.
Accessibility to cheaper funds through Kenya’s membership on Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

These investments are expected to increase capabilities and enhance the existence of Kenya as the beacon of growth in the entire region.

Leadership on Climate Change at the International Arena

Kenya reinforced its status as a leader in climate diplomacy through impactful initiatives:

During COP29 held in Baku, Kenya effectively PUSH for the Nairobi Declaration which would increase the flow of climate finance to $ 300 billion from $100 billion.

Organizing global major events like the ACS23 and UNEA6 demonstrated that Kenya is a leading actor in coordinating action on climate change.

Empowering the Diaspora

Kenya prioritized its diaspora, focusing on job creation and economic contribution:

The agreements established offer 250,000 employment in Germany, Austria, and other countries.

launching the Mukulimas Majuu programme and setting up of the NCLEX-RN test centre in Nairobi opened up employment opportunities in foreign health care and agriculture sectors for health care and agricultural workers.

Diaspora contribution in the form of remittance increased to $4.9 billion ,17% higher than the $4.15 billion of the previous fiscal year which highly benefited the country’s economy.

Regional Peace and Security

Kenya’s leadership in peacekeeping and conflict resolution remained steadfast:

The Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti with personnel count of over 600 proved Kenyan’s pledge in global peace keeping.
The Tumaini Peace initiative in South Sudan was maintaining stability within the region as expected.

To achieve this another policy innovation has to be adopted and these are as follows;

The new compounding of the Twiga Diplomacy policy was announced by the government with the intention of synchronizing the foreign policy with modern arising global issues. To increase public awareness of diplomacy, the “Foreign Policy Mashinani” stems from the notion that.

A Vision for 2025

As he closed his year, Dr. Mudavadi pointed out on the importance of Kenya in enhancing foreign relations and the development of Kenya through partnership. He offered hope for the future more particularly December festivity and wished fellow Kenyans a prosperous new year.

The major achievements in diplomacy in the year 2024 for Kenya signifies its growing international assertiveness coupled with commitment of putting its citizens as well as the global populace to their deserved positive standard of living.

Building Kenya’s Future: President Ruto’s Vision for 2025

As usual in his New Year address, President William Ruto focused on the progress and problems of Kenya in 2024 and the numerous plans for 2025. His message focused on persistence, togetherness, and on building a better future, which should be considered as the program’s main themes.

Celebrating 2024 Achievements

President Ruto accepted the challenges that the nation has had to go through but appreciated the unity of purpose of the people of Kenya. Key achievements highlighted included:

Economic Stability: During the period there was an improvement in the exchange rate as the Kenya shilling gained more ground as well as sharp reduction in inflation to 2.7%. All these developments portend better practice in fiscal planning and increased investors’ enthusiasm.

Universal Healthcare: By rolling out the Taifa Care program the government also began the realization of the policy of universal health care.

Food Security and Housing: Efforts in the agricultural sector enhanced food stability and the dwelling scheme hit the million mark, which delivered 200,000 jobs for 873000 houses.

Ambitious Goals for 2025

In the future as presented by the President Ruto, Kenya had a vision that would seek to raise the standard of living of its people. His priorities include:

Economic Growth: Continual moves towards more growth of the economy and to generate more employment opportunities.

Agricultural Productivity: Improving on methods of farming or aeration and right food production to feed the starving and eradicate malnutrition.

Healthcare and Education Reforms: Enhancing the provision of services to increase the health and education literacy of the population.

Safety and Security: Strengthening measures aimed at the provision of security for people of Kenya in their everyday life and activities.

The President said that he expected these endeavors would help make Kenyans ‘better utilized in school and at work, and better fed, safer, and more secure’ in the forthcoming year.

Together We Stand! Together We Take Action: A Call to Minority Scholars for Collective Responsibility

Apart from progress in the economic and social fronts, which the president acknowledged, Ruto focused on the moral and societal vices. He encouraged Kenyans to adopt a culture of change – where every difficulty experienced was an opportunity for change for the better.

“It is therefore important that we all take our destiny into our own hands and exercise collective commitment in order to fashion out a united and prosperous Benguela,” he said, urging compatriots to embrace the culture of hard work, honesty and loyalty to the nation.

A Hopeful Future

Having said so, the President in his final remarks called on the people of the country to be hopeful and undertakings. “As one people, one country, Tanzania-Kenya/ Kenya-Tanzania, we shall realize the Kenya We Want,” he emphasized the capacity of the Kenya people in determination of their destiny.

The first leader to define the course of the Kenyan nation as it enters 2025 is President Ruto who’s vision of the future seems to inspire, challenge and demand the citizens’ cooperation in a continuing development process and construction of unity.

Controller of Budget petition reveals MPs’ expensive lavish travels.

A recent audit by the Controller of Budget shows that the three arms of government have been indulging in over expenditure on travels with MPs leading in the list. According to the report, the populace has shown little respect to the measures of stringency announced by President William Ruto in the use of public resources.

Billions Spent on Travel

The first-quarter report shows that Ksh. 3.5 billion was spent on travels within the four-month period only. This amount was used in domestic travels since it cost Ksh. 2.5 billion while foreign travels cost Ksh. 1 billion.

MPs Lead in Extravagance

The MPs have been described as being ‘honourably extravagant,’ with members of the National Assembly topping the spending list. They spent Ksh. 870 million on local business travels, and Ksh. 173 million on international travels in the review period. The Senate was very close spending Ksh. 345, 700, 000 on local travel and Ksh. 80, 600, 000 on international travel.

Other Parliamentary Organizations also could be held held responsible for this high expenditure of course. The Parliamentary Service Commission incurred a total of Ksh. 10.7 million in the costs of travel and another Ksh. 94.6 million by the Parliamentary Joint Services.

State House Travel Costs

The report also highlighted the travel expenses in the Institutional Executive branch. Domestic transport costs by the Office of the President amounted to Ksh. 11 million, and the foreign transport costs amounted to Ksh. 1.3 million. On the other hand, State House expenditure disclosed further spending of Ksh. 43 million on domestic travelling and Ksh 5.8 million on International travelling during the period July —October.

Breach of Austerity Measures

The flagged expenditures are shocking and contrary to the President Ruto’s austerity measures aimed at reducing wastage of taxpayers’ money. The report stressed the inability of accountability mechanisms in the country to discourage the misuse of public resources.

Call for Financial Prudence

The revelations made by the Controller of Budget especially concerning expenditure priorities have of late elicited controversy across the country. As billions of shillings are being emulated on travels, there is increasing pressure for improved scrutiny and a change of direction more towards the current real and fundamental needs of the nation such as health, education and physical infrastructure.

The revelation of these spending habits is the revelation of how expenditure ought to reflect the priorities of a nation, and how the money collected from the common populace is spent in the interest of such populace.

President Ruto assert commitment to national unity

President William Ruto has been keen on the unity of Kenya and encouraged citizens and leaders to work together for the progress of the country. During a church service and later a road side rally in Bomet County the head of state laid a vision of unity and prosperity, and decried on rightfully politicized history.

Appeal for National Unity

He said, embracing the theme focused on cooperation, leaders need to set priorities and offer direction on how to run the country for the benefit of every citizen. He also called on all citizens to refrain from further polarization and embrace to gather as one since the unity of the country is important.

The President said: I have decided and am determined to unite Kenya to realise that the progress of this nation depends on all of us.

Development Agenda

Listing the achievement of his administration, Ruto urged Kenyans to support the government’s development course. He acknowledged improvement in many sectors, such energy, infrastructure, health care as well as education. The President called on citizens to support these projects that he said could potentially provide employment for the youth and develop the nation.

To make his remarks, Ruto also touched on the progress of other projects that he partly started including the housing sector projects which are on the process of establishment in various market areas in the country. He came out to tell Kenyans that, there were more developments that would happen in the following year.

A Call for Spiritual Renewal

While preaching at Koiwa AIC church the President called on Kenyans to have faith in God and work hard in his service. He urged the congregation to pray for the country peace and success as they plan for the new year-2025.

In his New Year address, Ruto noted that ‘Besides daily endeavors there is God in heaven who has a very big role to play in success, ‘ saying that Kenyans need to think about the challenges conquered and milestones registered in the New Year alone.

Looking Ahead

Looking at the new year message of President Ruto directed especially on unity, development, and spiritual strength will in deed capture the heart of many Kenyans. He said everyone should work together towards the achievement of the goals leading to a prosperous Kenya come year 2025 emphasizing on unity, hard work and faith.

From this point of view, the willingness of people to stay united and continue development is a part of the President’s vision of creating the nation which implies everyone’s contribution to its peaceful and successful evolution.

Coast Hotels Brighten up as Domestic Tourists Head for Special Functions

Most hotels along the coastal region of Kenya have reported an increase in business this festive season as more domestic tourists patronize the area for the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Since many of the clientele are local people, these businesses have designed lively environments to appeal to locals and occasional tourists on holiday throughout the year.

Increased security for the Christmas holidays

There is good news for holidaymakers; the authorities in Mombasa have not relented in putting in place very stern and strict measures to enhance and guarantee the security of tourists. County Commissioner Mohamed Nur said that the security has since been enhanced as it was indicated that this is an organized team of criminals and many security agencies are on the job. Security around hotels, entertainment places, and beaches has been beefed up to ensure that tourist, can celebrate without any internal fears. Beach lovers were also encouraged to clear the beaches early in the morning in order to minimize danger posed by floods.

Travelers Beach Hotel Outright Celebrates the Festive Season

The Travelers Beach Hotel Christmas Eve held was colourful and memorable, as the hotel provided their guests with the best of Christmas. The theme of the venue was “Togetherness and Celebration” inasmuch as everything around resembled this theme. The theme “Across the World in Ten Days” was served to the guests where they got to enjoy some of the most desired food type the hotel possesses.

There was also a live band, which meant that as guests danced and had lots of fun at the event. The event also brought home the hotel’s mission to serve as a place of respite and regeneration, words echoed by the Hotel Sales and Marketing Manager, Carolynne Kurumei of Renaissance.

Popularity of Domestic Tourism

As it was previously realized, Travelers Beach Hotel was popular to the international tourists, but this season the number of domestic depending on the hotels was nearly 80%. In its explanation, the hotel wants it that has been resulted from increased numbers of travelers who are always opting for local holidays coupled with its tradition of offering first class service.

Many of the guests come back to the hotel, be they from within the country or from other countries, this speaks volumes of the noble quality of the hotel and a customer orientated business. As Kurumei stated, the volumes of innovation and the concern on the guest comments are the reasons that have kept customers loyal.

Establishing the Coastal Experience Amongst Guests

Tourists have described the Kenyan Coast as beautiful, welcoming and popular for it cultural events. A wise German visitor Michael Weis admitted the beautiful views and the hospitality of the people though he has been traveling to Mombasa for 30 years.

Other tourists too have complained well built and comfortable facilities. From Makueni County, Julius Mutui also emphasized the hotel’s good location, cleanliness together with sea view rooms that makes the hotel a home away from home.

Future of Coastal Tourism

As the festive season lays down a positive environment, the hotels along the coast expect an improvement in international tourists’ flow in the forthcoming months. January in particular should experience a sharp rise in global tourists to the Kenyan Coast thus affirming this region as premier. With this industry ongoing there is a guarantee that the region will experience ongoing growth because of the support from within and from other countries.

The Year 2024 in Review: A Revolutionary Time in Kenyan History

The year 2024 can be described as a year of dynamism that brought revolutionary change in socio-political, economic and even physical environment in Kenya. From crippling natural disasters to political measures changes and society activism and other struggles and transformational phenomena the country went through the test.

Natural Disasters and the Killer Floods

Kenya was hit by the biggest floods in April 2024 that affected the whole country leaving destruction. Severe floods compelled more than 110000 people to abandon their homes, many houses were washed away, and there were many fatalities. Nairobi informal settlements were among the stricken zones, where the people found themselves huddled on roofs

The Mai Mahiu case brought into perspective the just how severe it can be when water channels are blocked resulting to major flooding that claimed 61 lives. In May the death toll rose to 257, thousands injured and thousands displaced from their homes. Nevertheless, the government was criticized for the poor emergency aid, deficiency of action in disaster prevention and control.

The floods interrupted learning and resulted in education emergencies including damage to education infrastructure, impacting more than 150 schools leading institutions to provide learners affected with fees-waiver. The situation was eased through contribution of Ksh. 2 billion by the UAE but Kenyan citizens did not forgive the government for mishandling of the tragedy.

Finance Bill 2024: A Nation in Uproar

The just introduced Finance Bill 2024 drew a lot of negative public reactions and protests. The Bill that was geared at increasing taxes was regarded as exploitative specifically under a crunch economizing situation. Agriculture, telecommunication, and manufacturing industries expressed some of the concerns arising from adopting it.

The protests referred to as “Occupy Parliament” were initiated in June by a social media group led by gen Z members. Nevertheless, the Bill went through its second reading in parliament thereby eliciting nation-wide protest.

More of the protests were carried on June 25 when some protesters were killed by security forces around the Parliament premises. Sustaining the pressure, President William Ruto declined to endorse the Bill into law but rather sought public opinion. Finally, in July, Parliament threw out the Bill completely, but the bitter memory of the protests framed the nation’s psyche.

A Nation Wakes Up: Church and Civil Society Stands

Protests that followed by introduction of Finance bill pointed to a campaign in the country for accountability and integrity in governance. As churches started opening up leadership, religious heads began terming civil disobedience against poor leadership as acceptable.

for example the Catholic Church among others declined to accept monetary contributions from politicians as a sign of change in the role of the state in relation to religious organizations. It highlighted increasing public interest and concern for ethical leadership, professional and corporate governance in public activities.

School and Health: The right to strike

Education and healthcare workers went on protracted strike in the year because of delayed remunerations and unpaid or unbired demands. Hatred strikes as teachers walked out and doctors stayed away from schools and hospitals across the nation.

University lecturers also went on strike, pointing at embezzlement of funds in public universities. Due to some of the financial problems Moi University was almost closed and supplemented with embezzlement claims.

Healthcare Overhaul: The Unpleasant Change to Taifa Care

In October, the National Health Insurance Fund changed to Social Health Insurance Fund, now referred to as Taifa Care. It was undertaken with the objective of increasing availability of quality health services but was plagued with implementation problems as well as controversy.

Patients on dialysis for example, suffered terrible fates since the hospitals did not accept the NHIF cards but instead demanded cash. Nevertheless, the government was confident in Taifa Care’s capacity to revitalize the healthcare sector at the same time that the process was in shambles.

The Gen Z Movement and a Call for Change

The protests demonstrating against Finance Bill were actually part of bigger transitional trend in Kenya’s civic space. People of Gen Z raised up, taking the social networks as the megaphones to make their concern and demand change heard. This paved way to change and their activism disrupted the old-fashioned practice of powers-that-be that advocated for the improvement of governance for the marginalized.

A Year of Learning and Perseverance

2024 will be named as the year of challenging and transformational changes in human life. Disasters, including fires, floods, and conflicts, as well as social uprisings challenging for Kenya and encouraging development of effective governance and leadership.

President Ruto and AUC Chair Moussa Faki on the Reforms, Leadership Transition in the African Union

Session: High-Level Meeting in Narok County

President William Ruto welcomed African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Moussa Faki to Kilgoris, Narok County, for discussions on specific and concrete measures to improve AU. They also discussed the forthcoming elections for the AUC Chairpersonship because it was a critical step change in the leadership of the organization.

Raila Odinga’s Candidacy for AUC Chairperson

Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has listed himself through the African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State & Government to be considered for the next AUC Chairperson when Moussa Faki leaves office in 2025. The key issues pegged on Odinga’s campaign are promoting the African continent international voice and vying for two slots on the United Nations Security Council to boost the continental voice on security issues.

The Blessings of President Ruto on different agendas, such as endorsement of Odinga.

Ruto has come out in the open supporting Odinga’s presidential bid and asking Kenyans and the international community to do the same. The support indicates a renewed Kenyan call for increased participation in the African and other global forums.

A Competitive Race

Raila Odinga stands a chance to compete with Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato, all of whom have started their campaigns to head the AUC. The election is expected to be a defining moment for the AU in terms of defining the organization’s agenda and direction of reforms for the coming years.

Africa’s Drive for Reforms

Ruto’s meeting with Faki goes to show that there is a lot of work to be done when it comes to institutional development for the current African challenges. Possible topics maybe likely to have covered areas such as; improving the operational efficiency of the AU, increasing the financial resources base of the AU, and strengthening the AU’s capacity in managing continental and global challenges.

The elections that are due in AUC offer Africa another chance at entrenching itself as a leader in the international community. As Raila Odinga’s candidature builds up steam and with the support of the incumbent President William Ruto, Kenya steps up to be a key power broker of the African Union. These changes underscore the collective desire of the continent to effect change and improve their representation in decision making bodies around the globe.