Raila jets out for key address in UK

Azimio la Umoja leader Raila Odinga has embarked on a trip to the United Kingdom (UK) following an invitation from the Oxford Africa Society.

Raila who is accompanied by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, is expected to deliver a keynote address at the University of Oxford on Friday, May 24, 2024.

According to a statement released by Azimio, Raila’s lecture will be titled; Forging Africa’s Future: A Journey of Resilience and Renewal.

The former Prime Minister is expected to highlight Africa’s trajectory of resilience and renewal, offering insights from his extensive experience in public service and advocacy.

“He will focus on the continent’s challenges and opportunities and the pivotal role of leadership in steering Africa towards a future characterized by progress and prosperity,” Azimio stated.

“His address will feature key themes like political stability, economic growth, equity, democracy and social cohesion while highlighting stories of resilience and examples of renewal from across Africa,” the statement added.

At the sidelines, the opposition leader is also expected to pitch his candidacy for African Union Commission chairmanship. He is expected to sell his agenda and convince other leaders attending the conference why he is suited to succeed Mussa Faki as African Union Commission chairperson.

So far, several leaders and countries have thrown their weight towards his candidacy for the continental job.

Sifuna who is accompanying the former prime minister, expressed his gratitude for receiving an invite from the University of Oxford.

“Honored to be invited to a panel at this year’s Oxford University Africa Conference alongside Baba who will be giving the Keynote address,” Sifuna stated.

Sifuna added that the Azimio lawmakers will later engage in other activities including attending the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected mayor of Derry Lilian Seenoi in Ireland.

Raila to use KQ

The ODM Secretary General further insisted that the delegate was going to fly to the UK using Kenya Airways amidst ongoing debate on why President William Ruto used a chartered plane for his State Visit to the US.

Others travelling with Raila include Prof Makau Mutua and Nyando MP Jared Okello.

Honored to be invited to a panel at this year’s Oxford University Africa Conference alongside Baba who will be giving the Keynote address. After that tunaapisha Councilor Lilian Seenoi, Maasai wa hapa tu Narok amechaguliwa Mayor kule Derry, Ireland…and we are flying The Pride… pic.twitter.com/8eudOSahe4

— Edwin Sifuna (@edwinsifuna) May 23, 2024