Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s mandate as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development has come to an end.
The announcement was made in a letter from the African Union Commission president Moussa Faki, dated February 19.
In his letter, Faki commended Odinga for his leadership in leveraging infrastructure as a key priority in the continent, stating that his role in the journey has been invaluable. Raila’s term ended as the NEPAD Agency prepared to take full charge of the docket.
“The transformation of the NEPAD Agency to the African Union Development Agency has now been completed, with a full mandate to implement the Continental agenda on infrastructure,” Faki said.
He added, “Your role in this journey, Excellency, has been invaluable. Allow me to express my profound gratitude for accepting to serve in this role during the transition period, which has now come to a happy conclusion.”
Raila Odinga was appointed to the position in October 2018, as part of the African Union’s drive to expedite the integration of the continent through infrastructure, in order to promote economic growth and sustainable development.
During his tenure, Raila focused on the missing links along the transnational highway corridors identified as part of the Trans-African Highways Network, with a view to facilitating their development and modernization.
He also paid particular attention to the continental high-speed train, which is one of the flagship projects of the First Ten-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063.
The African Union’s focus on infrastructure development remains a key priority, and the organization will undoubtedly continue to work towards improving the lives of Africans through improved access to infrastructure.
“This decision is part of the African Union’s drive to expedite the integration of the continent through infrastructure, in order to promote economic growth and sustainable development,” Faki said.
“He will also support the Commission and NEPAD initiatives to encourage increased commitment from development partners.”
