Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has decided end of his mandate as an African Union (AU) special envoy.
Raila has been AU’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa since October 20, 2018.
In a letter dated February 19, Mahamat thanked Odinga for his service and wished him well in future.
He said the African Union Development Agency – New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) will take over the role.
“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,” the letter read in part.
In response, Odinga wrote to African Union Chairperson in a letter shared on his Twitter account, saying he asked to be relieved of his duties due to challenges to his continued unavailability.
“During our meeting on the sidelines of the 2nd Dakar African Infrastructure Financing Summit in Dakar, Senegal about three weeks ago, I indicated the challenges to my continued availability for the role of AU High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa. In that regard, I welcome your quick action that will free me to pursue other pressing and urgent matters,” he said.
Raila said it was an honor to serve in the special envoy by the Union, adding that he is happy with the work he has done towards the transformation of the NEPAD Agency to African Union Development Agency-NEPAD.
“It has been a great pleasure and honor serving our continent and our people and addressing Infrastructure development, I am proud to have made a contribution to the transformation of the NEPAD Agency to African Union Development Agency-NEPAD, among other contributions during my tenure,” Odinga said.
“Many challenges remain, including the inaction by the continent’s leadership and vested interests outside the Continent that are only too keen to keep Africa in its present condition. Hopefully, the continent will overcome these.”
In his letter, Mahama noted that Odinga will still remain a valuable person to the Union, telling the former prime minister “The African Union hopes to continue counting on your support for other possible assignments.”
In response, Odinga said he will notify the Union when he might be available for other assignments.
“I will be indicating when I might be available for deployment on continental assignment as circumstances change. Wishing you all the best in the difficult role. Please, accept the assurances of my highest consideration and personal esteem,” he concluded.
By Irene Mutu
