[PHOTOS] Raila hosts Netherlands and Egypt ambassadors

Azimio leader Raila Amollo Odinga on Wednesday hosted Netherlands ambassador to Kenya Maarten Brouwer together with his Egypt counterpart Wael Nasreldin Attiya.

Raila said the meeting focused on the potential for a stronger, more unified Africa even as he emphasized the need for continental integration, enhanced trade and infrastructure development.

During the meeting, he also expressed concerns about tribalism and the persistent "them vs us" mindset in leadership and resource allocation.

Raila stressed the need for a step-by-step plan to address challenges like different currencies, visa requirements and inconsistent air traffic rules.

"I underscored the importance of a phased, evolutionary approach to tackle issues like multiple currencies, numerous visa requirements, and various air traffic control regulations. I believe the time has come for the introduction of an AU passport to ease travel across Africa," Raila said in a statement on X.

"Together, we can pave the way for Africa’s takeoff, fostering a continent that is integrated, prosperous, and unified."

He also articulated his vision for Africa in the evolving global environment and his bid for the African Union Commission chairmanship.

Raila said they highlighted the necessity of moving beyond merely signing free trade agreements to actualizing them.

The meeting also addressed challenges such as payment mechanisms for goods traded among African nations amidst the scarcity of US dollars and the imperative of facilitating freedom of movement for their people.