AU, IGAD lead Africa in mourning former Prime Minister Raila Odinga
African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described Odinga as a towering figure in Kenyan politics and a continental leader who devoted his life to promoting democracy, good governance and inclusive development.
The African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have mourned the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who passed away on Wednesday, aged 80, while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Kerala, India.
In a statement, African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf described Odinga as a towering figure in Kenyan politics and a continental leader who devoted his life to promoting democracy, good governance and inclusive development.
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"His decades-long commitment to justice, pluralism, and democratic reform left an indelible mark not only on Kenya but across the African continent," said Mahmoud.
"He inspired generations of leaders, including myself, and citizens alike through his courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in the power of dialogue and democratic institutions."
Mahmoud similarly credited Odinga for advancing Africa's infrastructure and integration agenda during his tenure as the AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development. Odinga served in the position from October 2018 to February 2023.
"He worked tirelessly to advance the continent's integration and connectivity agenda, helping to lay the foundations for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and broader socio-economic transformation," he added.
Further, Mahmoud described Odinga as a visionary leader whose lifelong dedication to justice and unity would continue to inspire Africa's pursuit of peace and progress.
AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. (Photo: File)
"Africa has lost one of its most visionary sons; a leader who dedicated his life to the pursuit of justice, democracy, and unity. His legacy will continue to inspire our collective efforts to build a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Africa," he said.
The AUC Chairperson also conveyed condolences to Odinga's family, Kenyans and Africans at large, noting that his passing was a great loss to the continent.
"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," he said.
IGAD has also mourned Odinga's passing, describing him as a true Pan-Africanist whose lifelong commitment to democracy, justice and unity inspired generations across the continent.
"IGAD Executive Secretary has conveyed his condolences to the people and Government of Kenya on the passing of Raila Amolo Odinga," the IGAD Secretariat said in a statement on X.
In his tribute, IGAD Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu noted that Odinga's struggle for freedom and equality inspired generations across Kenya and the continent, reminding leaders that true leadership is rooted in service and sacrifice rather than power.
"IGAD stands with the people and Government of Kenya in this moment of profound sorrow. His legacy will forever echo in the democratic foundations he helped build and in the enduring hope he instilled across our continent," he said.
"May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his example continue to guide us toward a freer and more united Africa."
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