Raila Lands Top Role at the African Union Commission

Opposition leader Raila Odinga has landed a top role at the African Union (AU). Odinga has been appointed as the High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa by the African Union Commission.

In a communique, AU Commission’s chairperson Moussa Faki says the appointment of the Kenyan opposition chief is part of the body's efforts to expedite integration of the continent through 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,” says Faki in a statement.

In his new role, Odinga is expected to support efforts of the Commission’s relevant departments.

"The high representative will work to support and strengthen efforts of the commission’s relevant departments and those of the planning and coordinating agency of the new partnership for Africa’s development. It’s in line with framework of the program for infrastructure development in Africa endorsed by the Assembly of the Union in January 2012," the AU Commission chairperson adds.

President Kenyatta has congratulated Raila, terming the appointment as a great honor to the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader and the people of Kenya.

"The appointment of Raila Odinga to the High Representative position is a great honour not only to the Hon. Raila but also to the people and the Republic of Kenya.”

“Raila Odinga has over the years been at the forefront in the development of modern infrastructure as an economic enabler and as an instrument for regional and international integration," says Kenyatta in a statement.