Kenya: President William Samoei Ruto praised the former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and said that he has it all what it takes to champion the unity and progress of the African continent. Odinga is candidature for the African Union Commission Chairperson and is continuously receiving tremendous support owing to their proven track record as a pan-Africanist.
President Ruto expressed confidence in Odinga’s leadership that will foster peace across the continent and effectively manages conflicts and unlock the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement. He said that they are very confident that the successful bid of Raila is going to see the fortunes of the continent change for the better future. He made the remarks during the 4th edition of the Piny Luo Cultural Festival in Bondo, Siaya County on Thursday.
President of Uganda – Yoweri Museveni was the chief guest at the cultural event. He said that the region supports minister Odinga’s candidature as chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). He pointed out that the ones in power across Africa have the authority to affect and bring meaningful change in the continent. Museveni said that he will help them in brainstorming but the real power is with them. They are in charge of these states.
William Samoei Ruto rooted for African integration and noted that territorial boundaries should not serve as roadblocks to trade and investment between and among countries. He said nations must collaborate for the greater good of the continent. He stated that there cannot be a successful Kenya without a thriving East Africa.
Considering this, President Museveni called on African countries to work towards unity of purpose and ensured inclusive growth by sharing prosperity across the continent. His all efforts emphasised the need to revisit the historical priorities of the continent which was identified as the creation of prosperity for the people. They also recognised establishment of strategic security, against all threats and promotion of integration in the African continent.
During that time, President Ruto announced that the government will build a fish landing site in Wichlum, Siaya County at a cost of KSh100 million to support the fishing community. He also opened the Nyang’oma Technical Training College Ramogi Campus and said that the campus will immediately start admitting the students in January 2025.
Kenyan President Ruto commended counties for their role in preserving culture through cultural festivals. Former PM Odinga called for African integration in order to ease the movement of people, goods and services, as well as foster cross-border trade and in promoting inclusive growth. He said it was the time to actualise the dreams of the continent’s founding fathers who envisioned a united Africa free from artificial borders. He also added that these borders do not have to be impediments to cooperation and working together.