By Edson Baraukwa | Africa Guardian
Former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga has vowed to push for the creation of an AU Visa to facilitate easier travel across the African continent if elected as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC).
The AU introduced the African passport program in 2018, aimed at removing restrictions on Africans’ freedom to migrate, work, and reside within the continent. However, this initiative has yet to be fully realized. During the official launch of his candidacy on Tuesday, August 27, at State House, Nairobi, Raila committed to dismantling travel barriers within Africa.
“My friend Aliko Dangote says that for him to travel across the continent, he needs 35 visas. His French competitor, with a French passport, does not need a visa to travel within Africa. What a shame,” Raila remarked.
He further explained his vision of making intra-African travel as seamless as it is in Europe. “In Europe, you only need a Schengen visa to travel across the entire region without issues. We will strive to reach a stage where we can issue an AU Visa, allowing people to travel across the continent without hindrance,” Raila added.
Raila’s Stance on Trade Barriers
To enhance connectivity and intra-African trade, Raila also promised to advocate for airspace reforms. He highlighted that Africa is wasting valuable time and resources searching for overseas markets, often to its detriment.
He emphasized the importance of increasing trade within Africa, noting that intra-African trade currently stands at only 15%. “We need to address the constraining factors, including non-tariff barriers imposed by other African countries, and more importantly, the issue of infrastructure,” Raila stated.
Raila’s Vision for the African Union
Earlier, its been reported that Raila’s bid for the AUC chair was gaining traction. Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing’oei shared images of two booklets detailing Raila’s CV and his vision statement for the AUC position. The ODM leader also listed several African presidents who have openly supported his aspirations for the continent.
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