Raila Odinga's tenure as AU envoy ends after 5 years

Kenya's former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. [File, Standard]

Raila Odinga's tenure as African Union's High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa has ended after five years, the African Union (AU) Commission has said.

Odinga assumed the role in October 2018.

In a letter seen by The Standard dated February 19, 2023, AU chairperson Moussa Faki said the former Kenyan Prime Minister exhibited exceptional leadership during his tenure as special envoy. "Your role in this journey, excellency, has been invaluable. Allow me to express my profound gratitude for accepting to serve in this role during the transition period, which has now come to a happy conclusion," Faki said.

"The African Union hopes to continue counting on your support for other possible assignments," added the AU boss.

Odinga's role

As the AU's High Representative for Infrastructure Development, Odinga was tasked with mobilising political support and development assistance from member states and regional economic communities.

Odinga also supported the New Partnership for Africa's Development Agency (NEPAD) initiatives to encourage increased commitment from development partners. NEPAD's main objectives are to reduce poverty, put Africa on a sustainable development path, halt the marginalisation of Africa and empower women.

In his capacity, the ex-PM also paid special attention to the missing links along the transnational highway corridors identified as the Trans-African Highways Network, with a view to facilitating their development and modernisation.