The African Union Commission (AUC) has joined a growing chorus of tributes honouring former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as “one of Africa’s most visionary sons.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the AUC Chairperson, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, expressed his “profound sadness” following Odinga’s death in India, where he was receiving treatment.
“On behalf of the African Union, its organs and institutions, the Chairperson extends his deepest condolences to the Odinga family, the government and people of Kenya, and to the entire African family mourning this immense loss,” the statement read.
Odinga, 80, died on Wednesday, October 15, after suffering a cardiac arrest during a morning walk at an Ayurvedic hospital in Kerala, India. He had been receiving treatment at the facility for several days.
Chairperson Youssouf paid tribute to Odinga’s lifelong commitment to reform, dialogue, and continental integration. As the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development, Odinga spearheaded key initiatives to improve regional connectivity and promote the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“The continent has lost a statesman whose dedication to dialogue, reform, and unity was unmatched,” Youssouf said.
The message carried added significance. Earlier this year, Odinga had launched a continent-wide campaign to succeed Youssouf as Chairperson of the African Union Commission. Backed by Kenya’s President William Ruto, he toured African capitals to rally support, claiming endorsements from at least 21 countries. Despite his efforts, Odinga lost to Youssouf in the sixth round of voting during the February 2025 election.
Zambia’s Hichilema Pays Tribute
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema also expressed his sorrow, calling Odinga a “friend” and “towering advocate for democracy.”
“It is with great sorrow and a heavy heart that we extend our deepest condolences to the people of Kenya, the Odinga family, President William Ruto, and all those touched by the life of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga,” Hichilema said in a statement.
“In honouring his memory, we celebrate his many contributions — from advancing constitutional reforms and championing inclusive governance to fostering dialogue in times of crisis. His legacy will endure.”
Odinga was among the first to congratulate Hichilema after his election victory in 2021. The two leaders maintained a cordial friendship, often aligning on issues of governance and democratic reform across the continent.
As Africa reflects on his passing, Raila Odinga’s legacy — one of resilience, reform, and unrelenting hope for a united continent — continues to resonate from Nairobi to Addis Ababa and beyond.
You may also like
Category: News · Related Topic: Kenya Politics
Related Video: What Dangote’s proposed Lamu oil refinery could mean for East Africa
Facebook
Twitter / X
WhatsApp
LinkedIn
Telegram
Reddit