Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, outlined his vision for transforming Africa’s Energy Sector if elected as the next chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).

In a lengthy post, Raila explained that he was not just fighting to occupy the highest office in the African continent but he was in the race to change the continent’s fortunes.

The former prime minister noted that Africa has rich natural resources including sun, wind and water in various bodies which could be utilised to liberate the energy sector.

He pitched the idea of having every school, hospital and other social amenities powered by clean renewable energy.

“I, Raila Odinga, am not just fighting for a position; I am fighting for the future of every African. The sun that rises over our vast lands, the winds that sweep across our plains, and the rivers that flow through our valleys – these are not just natural wonders; they are the keys to our liberation from energy poverty,” Raila’s statement read in part.

“I dream of an Africa where every home, every school, and every hospital is powered by the clean, renewable energy that our continent so abundantly possesses.”

“As your AUC Chairperson, I will pour my soul into making this dream a reality, investing in the infrastructure that will light up our future,” Raila passionately told the heads of state attending the energy summit in Tanzania.”

Saddened by state of affairs

Raila Odinga lamented how some school-going children were forced to do their homework under street lights and others use kerosene lamps.

He added that some villages turn dark immediately after sunrise.

“I have walked through villages where darkness falls with the sun, where children study by the flickering light of kerosene lamps. This is not the Africa I envision.

“I will fight with every fiber of my being to bring reliable electricity to every corner of our continent, especially to those who have been left behind. Off-grid solutions, mini-grids powered by the sun and the wind – these are not just technologies; they are lifelines that I will champion with all my might,” the former Prime Minister stated.

Calls for partnership

With the continent facing the threat of climate change, Raila called for collaboration with other heads of state to address the issue and ensure every corner of the continent is connected.

He asked leaders to support his course while pledging to find a lasting solution to the energy sector if elected to the AUC chairmanship position.

“But I cannot do this alone. This is a journey we must embark on together. I will forge partnerships that transcend borders, uniting African nations, the private sector, and international allies in a common cause. Together, we will build an energy future that is not just sustainable, but resilient, inclusive, and prosperous for all Africans.”