African Union Appoints Raila Odinga to High Representative for Infrastructure Development Position

The African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat on Mashujaa Day announced that Opposition leader Raila Odinga had accepted to take up the position of High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa.

In a statement seen by Kenyans.co.ke, the AU chairperson elaborated that the former Prime Minister had been picked for the position due to his vast political experience as well as the values he endears.

"The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, today (October 20) appointed Honorable Raila Odinga of Kenya as High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa.

"The Chairperson of the Commission is grateful to Honorable Raila Odinga for accepting this important assignment. He brings with him a rich political experience and his strong commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism and African integration, as well as a deep knowledge of infrastructure development," the statement read in part.

The statement outlined that Odinga's new role will involve rallying together member states of the AU to support and own infrastructure projects initiated in the continent. 

"His mandate includes mobilizing further political support from the Member States and the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and facilitating greater ownership by all concerned stakeholders on the continent.

"He will also support the Commission and NEPAD initiatives to encourage increased commitment from development partners," the statement read in part.

Mahamat's statement further outlined that President Uhuru Kenyatta had given his blessing on Odinga's appointment offering unwavering support.

"The Chairperson of the Commission expresses appreciation to President Uhuru Kenyatta for his support to this decision, consistent with his commitment to African integration.

"He looks forward to the full cooperation of all Member States with the High Representative, as he carries out the mandate entrusted to him," the statement concluded.

During his Mashujaa Day address, the president reiterated the position congratulating Mr Odinga who was also present at the Bukhungu Stadium, Kakamega.