By Grace Gilo
Raila Odinga hosted H.E Maarten Brouwer, the ambassador of the Kingdom of Netherlands to Kenya and H.E Wael Nasreldin Attiya, the ambassador of Egypt to Kenya, today.
The Azimio Chairman articulated his vision for Africa in the global environment and his bid for the African Union (AU) chairmanship with the two ambassadors.
The former prime minister stressed that the time to introduce an AU passport to ease travel across Africa had come.
According to Raila, the AU passport would pave the way for Africa’s takeoff, fostering an integrated, prosperous, and unified continent.
“I believe the time has come for the introduction of an AU passport to ease travel across Africa. Together, we can pave the way for Africa’s takeoff, fostering a continent that is integrated, prosperous, and unified,” stated Raila.
Raila also emphasized the need for a gradual approach to tackle issues such as multiple currencies, numerous visa requirements and various air traffic control regulations.
“I underscored the importance of a phased, evolutionary approach to tackle issues like multiple currencies, numerous visa requirements, and various air traffic control regulations,” Raila said.
The meeting focused on the potential of a more integrated Africa, emphasizing the need for continental integration, enhanced trade, and infrastructure development.
Raila also expressed his concerns about tribalism and the persistent “them vs us” mindset in leadership and resource allocation.
They also highlighted the significance of moving beyond merely signing free trade agreements to actualizing them.
Moreover, they addressed challenges such as payment mechanisms for goods traded among African nations amidst the scarcity of US dollars and the imperative of facilitating freedom of movement.