Bondo, Siaya County — Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has garnered significant support for his bid to chair the African Union Commission, as emphasized by President William Ruto during the 4th edition of the Piny Luo Cultural Festival held in Bondo on Thursday.
President Ruto expressed confidence in Odinga’s ability to unify the African continent and drive its progress, citing his extensive track record as a committed pan-Africanist.
The President highlighted that Odinga’s leadership could play a crucial role in promoting peace, managing conflicts, and maximizing the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement. “We are optimistic that Raila’s successful bid will lead to positive changes for our continent,” President Ruto asserted.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, the chief guest at the festival, also voiced his support for Odinga, emphasizing the capacity of African leaders to enact meaningful change. “He will help us in brainstorming, but the real power lies with us. We are the ones who can say we move and we move,” Museveni remarked.
In his address, President Ruto advocated for greater African integration, arguing that national borders should not hinder trade and investment. “A thriving East Africa is essential for a successful Kenya,” he stated, echoing Museveni’s call for unity and shared prosperity on the continent.
Both leaders stressed the importance of revisiting Africa’s historical priorities: fostering prosperity, ensuring strategic security, and promoting regional integration.
In addition to his political remarks, President Ruto announced the establishment of a KSh100 million fish landing site in Wichlum, Siaya County, aimed at supporting the local fishing community. He also inaugurated the Nyang’oma Technical Training College Ramogi Campus, which will start admitting students this January.
Raila Odinga, in his speech, called for the removal of barriers that impede movement and trade across Africa, urging for the realization of the founding fathers’ vision of a united continent. “These borders do not have to be impediments to cooperation,” he stated.
The event saw the attendance of various dignitaries, including Governors James Orengo (Siaya), Ochilo Ayacko (Migori), Gladys Wanga (Homa Bay), Anyang’ Nyong’o (Kisumu), and Jonathan Bii (Uasin Gishu), along with Cabinet Secretaries Opiyo Wandayi (Energy) and Rebecca Miano (Tourism), among others.
