GIS – 06 January 2025: The former Prime Minister of Kenya, Mr Raila Amolo Odinga, paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister, Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam, today, at the New Treasury Building in Port-Louis. The meeting centred around Mr Odinga’s candidacy for the position of Chairperson of the African Union (AU) through the Indian Ocean Commission.
In a statement following the meeting, Prime Minister Ramgoolam expressed his spontaneous support for Mr Odinga, underlining the importance of strengthening Mauritius’ bond with Africa. He also spoke about Mr Jomo Kenyatta, the African Statesman and Nationalist, who served as the first Prime Minister and later as the first President of independent Kenya, and his significant contributions to Mauritius’ journey to independence. Additionally, Dr Ramgoolam commended Mr Odinga’s extensive experience, stating that he is the right leader for the moment, well-suited to drive the continent’s progress forward.
For his part, Mr Odinga stated that his meeting with Prime Minister Ramgoolam was convivial, and that he is on his third visit to Mauritius. As a candidate for the AU Commission’s Chairmanship, he emphasised his commitment to garnering support from Member States. He assured that, if elected, he would work diligently to implement reforms and uphold the vision of the AU’s founding fathers, ensuring that the organisation fulfills its original objectives of unity and progress for the African continent.
Addressing the pressing challenges faced by Small Island States, Mr Odinga highlighted the devastating impact of climate change, including rising sea levels and destructive storms that erode coastlines and damage infrastructure. He, thus, stressed the importance of African nations speaking with a unified voice to amplify their influence on global platforms. Asserting that Africa contributes less than 5% of global carbon emissions yet bears the brunt of the consequences, he reiterated that the continent is a victim rather than a perpetrator of climate-related issues.
About the former Kenyan Prime Minister
Mr Odinga is a prominent Kenyan politician and businessman with a career spanning several decades in public service. He has played a significant role in Kenya’s political landscape, serving in various leadership capacities, including Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013. Known for his advocacy for democratic reforms and social justice, Mr Odinga has been a key figure in shaping Kenya’s political discourse.
The former Kenyan Prime Minister holds a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nairobi. His educational background, combined with various leadership and political training programmes, has enhanced his understanding of governance and public policy, contributing to his approach to leadership and contributions to Kenya’s development.
Government Information Service, Prime Minister’s Office, Level 6, New Government Centre, Port Louis, Mauritius. Email: gis@govmu.org Website: https://gis.govmu.org Mobile App: Search Gov
