Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, made a brief but significant stop in The Gambia on Sunday as part of his West African tour to garner support for his candidacy for the African Union (AU) Chairmanship. His visit underscores his active campaign to secure backing from leaders across the continent ahead of the AU elections.

Upon arrival at Banjul International Airport, Odinga was warmly received by The Gambia’s Vice President, Mohammed B.S. Jallow. Although his visit was short, it was marked by strategic engagements, including a high-level meeting with the Vice President.

Additionally, he held a phone conversation with President Adama Barrow, who is currently on a nationwide tour. These discussions reportedly focused on Pan-African unity, the AU’s role in fostering economic development, and Odinga’s vision for the continent if elected AU Chair.

Sources close to the visit indicate that Odinga emphasized the importance of consolidating Africa’s influence on the global stage, advocating for stronger trade relations within the continent, and enhancing the AU’s capacity to address pressing challenges such as climate change, peacekeeping, and youth unemployment.

The Gambia has traditionally been a vocal supporter of African integration and has played a role in Pan-African initiatives, including hosting AU-related events in the past. Observers note that Odinga’s visit to Banjul could bolster his campaign by securing endorsements from key West African nations.

After his engagements in The Gambia, Odinga proceeded to Senegal, where he is expected to continue his efforts to rally support for his AU Chairmanship bid.

The AU Chairmanship, a critical leadership position within the organization, requires the ability to navigate the complexities of African politics, promote unity, and spearhead development initiatives. Odinga’s candidacy has garnered attention due to his decades-long political career, his advocacy for democracy, and his efforts to mediate conflicts within the region.

Odinga’s West African tour is part of a broader strategy to present himself as a unifying figure capable of addressing the continent’s diverse challenges.

His reception in The Gambia highlights the importance of engaging smaller but strategically significant countries in the race for AU leadership.