The African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have mourned the death of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a towering statesman, visionary leader, and unwavering Pan-Africanist whose influence shaped the continent’s democratic journey.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed profound sorrow over Raila’s passing, hailing him as one of Africa’s most distinguished and transformative leaders.
Youssouf extended condolences on behalf of the AU, its organs, and institutions to the Odinga family, the Government and people of Kenya, and the broader African community, noting that Odinga’s leadership had left “an indelible mark on the continent.”
“H.E. Raila Odinga was a towering figure in Kenya’s political life and a steadfast champion of democracy, good governance, and people-centered development,” Youssouf said.
“His decades-long commitment to justice, pluralism, and democratic reform left an indelible mark not only on Kenya but across the African continent. 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.”
Youssouf further highlighted Raila’s contribution beyond Kenya’s borders, particularly his work as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the continent’s integration and connectivity agenda.
“Mr. Odinga’s contributions extended far beyond national borders. He worked tirelessly to advance the continent’s integration, helping to lay the foundations for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and broader socio-economic transformation,” he said.
Describing Raila as “one of Africa’s most visionary sons,” Youssouf added that his legacy would continue to inspire collective efforts to build “a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic Africa.”
IGAD Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, also paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister, calling him an unwavering Pan-Africanist who dedicated his life to the pursuit of democracy, justice, and unity.
“His lifelong struggle for freedom and equality inspired generations across Kenya and beyond, reminding us that leadership is not about power, but about service and sacrifice,” the statement read.
IGAD affirmed its solidarity with the people and Government of Kenya during this time of mourning, saying Raila’s legacy will forever echo in the democratic foundations he helped build and the enduring hope he instilled across our continent.
Raila Odinga served the African Union (AU) as the High Representative for Infrastructure Development from 2018-2023, where he supported initiatives like the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) and focused on connecting transnational highways and advancing the high-speed rail project.
In February 2025, Odinga vied for the position of the AUC chairperson, where he lost to Djibouti's Mahamoud Ali Youssouf. Although he initially led in the first round of voting, he could not secure the two-thirds majority required and was eliminated in a later round.