Wiper Party leader and former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka has paid an emotional tribute to the late Raila Odinga, describing him as one of Africa’s greatest Pan-Africanists whose vision and legacy will continue to guide the continent for generations.
Speaking on Sunday, Kalonzo said the world had lost a towering statesman whose life was devoted to the cause of African unity, democracy, and people-centred leadership.
“Africa and the world recently bade farewell to one of our greatest Pan-Africanists, the Second Prime Minister of the Republic of Kenya, Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga,” Kalonzo said.
“Your heartfelt tribute to him this morning deeply moved me. I am certain that from the mountaintop, my dear friend Raila is smiling down upon you, proud of your tribute in his honour.”
Kalonzo praised Raila’s lifelong dedication to Pan-Africanism, saying it went beyond rhetoric and was reflected in his daily actions and political commitments.
“Raila’s Pan-Africanism was never merely ideological; it was a way of life. For decades, he championed African unity, economic cooperation, and leadership that prioritises people. He believed passionately that Africa must speak with one voice, and that our continent’s future depends on our ability to stand together,” Kalonzo said.
He highlighted Raila’s work as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development, noting that his vision of an interconnected Africa symbolised both progress and liberation.
“As the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development, Raila carried this dream across Africa. He envisioned a continent connected by railways, roads, energy corridors, and digital networks — a continent bound not by borders, but by shared purpose,” Kalonzo stated.
Quoting Raila’s frequent reminder that “Africa cannot trade or integrate without infrastructure,” Kalonzo said the late leader viewed connectivity as a form of freedom.
“For Raila, this connection was more than development; it was liberation — a living symbol of Pan-African unity,” he added.
The former vice president said Raila’s ideals and commitment to Africa’s advancement will continue to resonate across the continent.
“Even in death, Raila’s spirit continues to inspire. His voice reminds us that Africa’s power lies in cooperation, not division; in dignity, not dependency,” Kalonzo said.
He concluded by expressing hope that Raila’s dream for a united and self-reliant Africa will endure: “May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his dream for a united Africa live on.”
Kalonzo spoke during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Pan-African Institute in Lukenya.
