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The initiative, launched through UAE Aid Agency, will support the Emirates Nature—WWF, in partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), to implement the 'Community Resilience to Natural Disasters Programme.'

The announcement was made on the fourth day of the 2025 IUCN World Conservation Congress, hosted by Abu Dhabi.

The Community Resilience to Natural Disasters Programme is a joint initiative between WWF and the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

The programme aims to harness nature-based solutions to strengthen communities’ ability to withstand and adapt to natural hazards, enhance disaster preparedness, and promote sustainable sources of income.

The UAE’s US$10 million contribution will support the first phase of the programme, designed to attract additional co-financing from public and private sector partners and donor institutions. The goal is to expand the programme’s reach and ensure long-term sustainability through shared responsibility and collaboration.

Dr. Tareq Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of the UAE Aid Agency, reaffirmed the UAE’s pioneering global role in advancing international cooperation for the benefit of people and nature.

Dr. Al Ameri said, 'This initiative embodies the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to invest in preventive action and enhance the adaptive capacities of local communities in facing natural disasters.

The strategic partnership between Emirates Nature and WWF reflects the UAE’s commitment to moving from crisis response to readiness and resilience, empowering communities to adapt and recover effectively.'

Laila Mostafa Abdullatif, Director General of Emirates Nature—WWF, stated, 'This commitment reflects the UAE’s belief that resilience begins within communities. For 25 years, Emirates Nature—WWF has worked hand in hand with the nation’s leadership and local partners to empower people and protect nature. Extending this ethos, by leading this programme across Asia-Pacific allows us to collaborate with communities in strengthening their natural defences, securing livelihoods, and shaping resilient, thriving futures together.'

Kirsten Schuijt, Director-General of WWF International, said, 'Nature is one of humanity’s strongest allies in reducing disaster risk. Through this initiative, partners will support communities leading the restoration and stewardship of the ecosystems that protect them – from mangroves to mountains – while laying the foundation for safer, more resilient societies. This is a collective investment in both environmental integrity and human security.

Nena Stoiljkovic, IFRC Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Diplomacy and Digitalisation, stated, 'The frequency and intensity of natural hazards are increasing, and the best way to protect and save lives is to build resilience before they strike. This initiative focuses on preparedness, adaptation and the mitigation of disaster risk – ensuring that hazards do not become disasters. By working with nature as our first line of defence, together with WWF, we can strengthen communities, safeguard lives and livelihoods, and reduce the human and economic cost of future crises.'

The Community Resilience to Natural Disasters Programme focuses on three key pillars: the restoration of natural protective systems, including mangrove forests and coral reefs; the promotion of sustainable livelihoods, supporting farmers, fishers and small enterprises through eco-tourism and income diversification; and strengthening community preparedness through early warning systems and risk reduction frameworks developed with local communities.

The programme’s first phase will be implemented in the Philippines, Indonesia, Fiji, and the Solomon Islands, establishing a scalable model for future regional expansion.

IGIHE

This represents a 22.5 percent increase compared to the previous year. Together, they account for 67.4 percent of all regulated financial assets, meaning the banking sector controls roughly two-thirds of the country’s financial system and remains central to Rwanda’s financial stability and growth.

At the core of this expansion are Rwanda’s nine commercial banks: I&M Bank Rwanda Plc, Bank of Kigali Plc, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, GT Bank Plc, Ecobank Rwanda Plc, Access Bank Rwanda Plc, Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, BOA Rwanda Plc, and NCBA Rwanda Plc. Combined, they manage assets valued at Frw 7.7 trillion.

The commercial banks growth has been driven by strong lending activity and solid deposit mobilisation.

Their growth has been driven by strong lending activity and solid deposit mobilisation, reflecting a buoyant domestic economy. Customer deposits rose by 27.7 percent to Frw 6.1 trillion, providing a stable funding base for lending. Using these funds, banks expanded their net loans to customers by 17.8 percent, reaching Frw 4.8 trillion.

This sustained credit flow is supporting households and businesses in key sectors such as construction, trade, manufacturing, transport, and hospitality, helping to fuel economic activity across the country.

Rwanda’s banks have also strengthened their financial foundations.

Rwanda’s banks have also strengthened their financial foundations. Liquidity positions improved significantly, with cash holdings up by 48.1 percent, balances in other banks rising by 39.8 percent, and reserves at the National Bank of Rwanda increasing by 30.4 percent. These indicators point to improved resilience and the ability to withstand potential financial shocks.

The sector’s capital position is also stronger. Total shareholders’ funds rose by 36.1 percent to FRW 1.8 trillion, driven by a 73.1 percent increase in reserves and a 21.6 percent rise in profits, which reached Frw 161 billion. This capital growth enhances lending capacity and provides an important buffer against possible economic disruptions.

I&M head office in Kigali.

While commercial banks dominate in size, specialised institutions continue to play a critical role. The Cooperative Bank, ZIGAMA CSS, manages Frw 1.1 trillion in assets and supports community-based financial services.

The Rwanda Development Bank (BRD) also expanded its balance sheet to Frw 902.6 billion as it focuses on financing large-scale and long-term investment projects. Together, these institutions complement the commercial banks’ activities and contribute to a more inclusive financial ecosystem.

Lower borrowing costs boost credit

The banking sector is also benefiting from improved monetary conditions. Following recent reductions in the Central Bank Rate, the weighted average lending rate dropped by 37 basis points to 15.93 percent, making credit more affordable for businesses and households. This has encouraged borrowing and stimulated investment across multiple sectors.

BPR head office in Kigali.

Rwanda’s banking industry is therefore not only expanding in size but also building greater financial strength. With strong deposit growth, rising loan portfolios, and a solid capital base, the sector is well-positioned to support the country’s ongoing economic transformation. These 11 institutions are shaping Rwanda’s financial landscape and powering its ambition for sustained and inclusive growth.

The banks are regulated by the National Bank of Rwanda.

IGIHE

AFC/M23 spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, said on the morning of October 15, 2025, that the attacks were conducted in coordination with other armed groups and militias allied with the FARDC, including the Wazalendo coalition.

'AFC/M23 informs citizens and the international community that, as has often been the case, the coalition of forces under Kinshasa’s command launched heavy bombardments on densely populated areas and on our positions in South and North Kivu, just hours after the ceasefire mechanism was signed in Doha on October 14, 2025.'

Kanyuka explained that other AFC/M23 positions also came under ground assaults, including Kadasomwa and Lumbishi in Kalehe territory, South Kivu Province, as well as Kasake in Masisi territory, North Kivu Province.

The DRC government forces launched these attacks in AFC/M23-controlled zones shortly after representatives from both sides signed an agreement on Tuesday, October 14, in Doha establishing a joint ceasefire monitoring and verification mechanism aimed at consolidating peace efforts in the country’s volatile east.

Facilitated by the State of Qatar, the agreement builds on the Doha Declaration of Principles signed on July 19, 2025, and outlines a structured process for monitoring compliance with the permanent ceasefire. The mechanism will be responsible for investigating and verifying alleged violations and engaging relevant actors to prevent renewed hostilities.

This was considered a significant step forward, aimed at helping both sides continue dialogue without obstacles and ultimately reach a lasting peace accord.

Kanyuka has emphasized that, beyond endangering civilians, the government coalition’s attacks undermine ongoing peace efforts.

AFC/M23 has accused Congolese army of launching major attacks despite ceasefire monitoring mechanism signed on Tuesday, October 14.

IGIHE

The list, approved by the National Counter-Terrorism Committee, was prepared under the Prime Minister’s Order No. 001/03 of 22 January 2025. It highlights figures alleged to have led or financed attacks, recruited fighters, or promoted extremist propaganda targeting Rwanda.

According to the document, those designated are linked to the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), Rwanda National Congress (RNC), and the Conseil National pour le Renouveau et la Démocratie — Forces de Libération Nationale (CNRD—FLN), among others.

Below is a list of the cited individuals and the charges against them.

1. Lt Gen Gaston Iyamuremye (76)

Known also as Victor Byiringiro, he is the president of FDLR, accused of planning and coordinating terror attacks against Rwanda, extorting civilians, and financing terrorism through illegal taxation and mineral smuggling in eastern DRC.

He is listed under UN Resolutions 1533 and 2078 and the U.S. Executive Order 13413.

2. Maj Gen Pacifique Ntawunguka (61)

Alias Omega, commander of FDLR—FOCA, accused of orchestrating cross-border terrorism, resource plundering, and illegal taxation to fund FDLR operations. He is sanctioned by the UN and U.S. authorities.

3. Col Sylvestre Sebahinzi (64)

Alias Zinga Zinga ZZ, based in Lusaka, Zambia, and a nephew of former president Juvénal Habyarimana.

He is accused of commanding FDLR terror operations (2006—2009), raising funds in Southern Africa, and overseeing executions in FDLR 'kangaroo courts.'

4. Maj Alphonse Munyarugendo (59)

Alias Monaco Dollar, a long-serving FDLR member, coordinating fundraising and logistics for terror activities in the SADC region from Maputo, Mozambique. He was among the founders of ALIR, precursor to the FDLR.

5. Faustin Ntirikina (68)

Alias Zigabe Pacifique, a French national of Rwandan origin, found guilty in case No. RP0038/2018/HC/HCI for recruiting youth into terror groups including RUD-Urunana and FLN. He is also accused of masterminding the 2019 Kinigi attacks that killed several civilians.

6. Maj Gen Antoine Hakizimana (54)

Alias Jeva, military chief of CNRD—FLN, accused of planning and financing the Nyaruguru and Kitabi attacks against Rwanda from his base in Bujumbura, Burundi.

7. Eric Munyemana (53)

A Belgian national and vice president of FLN, responsible for fundraising and coordination of terrorist operations, according to FIC intelligence reports.

8. Dr Innocent Biruka (61)

Alias Mitali, secretary general of CNRD—FLN, based in Mulhouse, France.

He was found guilty in the same case as Ntirikina for recruiting youth into the P5 coalition. He also claimed responsibility for the 2018 FLN attack on Yanze model village.

9. Gen Faustin Kayumba Nyamwasa (67)

A founding member of the RNC, living in Pretoria, South Africa, and cited as the architect of grenade attacks in Kigali between 2010 and 2013. He is accused of leading the RNC’s military wing and coordinating terror financing. Court documents link him to FDLR commanders and the UN Group of Experts report (2010).

10. Dr Emmanuel Hakizimana (62)

A co-founder of RNC, currently in Canada, accused of mobilizing funds and recruiting operatives for RNC and MRCD, another armed opposition group.

11. Abdulkarim Ali Nyarwaya (57)

Alias Dick Nyarwaya, a UK-based British national, accused of fundraising and supporting P5’s terror campaigns in collaboration with Kayumba Nyamwasa.

12. Maj Robert Higiro (55)

Alias Gasisi, based in Nairobi, accused of coordinating RNC activities, training recruits, and fundraising for the movement’s operations in the region.

13. Frank Ntwali (47)

RNC’s representative in Southern Africa, accused of liaising with FDLR and coordinating recruitment and fundraising for RNC’s military operations.

14. Ignace Rusagara (39)

Spokesperson for RNC in the United States, accused of promoting FDLR objectives, spreading propaganda, and inciting anti-Rwanda sentiments online.

15. Jean Paul Turayishimiye (53)

A U.S.-based court interpreter and founder of Rwanda Alliance for Change (RAC—Urunana).
He is accused of using his YouTube channel East African Daily to incite terrorism, organize fundraising, and recruit members under the P5 umbrella.

16. Gaspard Musabyimana (70)

A Belgium-based businessman and founder of Radio Inkingi and musabyimana.net, accused of funding FDLR propaganda and using his media platforms to spread hate speech and justify terror attacks.

17. Placide Kayumba (44)

Based in Namur, Belgium, accused of forming alliances between FDU—Inkingi and FDLR, and financing terrorism against Rwanda.

18. Augustin Munyaneza (62)

A Brussels-based taxi driver, alleged to be a sympathizer and fundraiser for FDLR—FOCA and P5 activities targeting Rwanda.

19. Michel Niyibizi (69)

A teacher in Tournai, Belgium, accused of coordinating fundraising and sanctioning terror plots on behalf of FDLR—FOCA and P5.

20. Jonathan Musonera (61)

A London-based RNC member, accused of inciting violence and mobilizing funds for RNC’s armed operations, as well as publicly supporting FDLR attacks.

21. Dr Theogene Rudasingwa (64)

A Washington-based RNC leader, accused of masterminding grenade attacks in Rwanda (2010—2013) and forging the RNC—FDLR collaboration. He is a former senior government official and ambassador.

22. Maj Jacques Kanyamibwa (68)

Based in Toulouse, France, accused of funding terrorism, recruiting online, and participating in the planning of the 2019 Kinigi attacks in Musanze District.

23. Thomas Nahimana (54)

Thomas Nahimana is the President of the ISHEMA Party and operator of the Isi n’Ijuru TV YouTube channel.

He is accused of inciting terrorism and coordinating activities with FDLR—FOCA leaders from his base in Le Havre, France.

24. Christine Coleman Uwizera (53)

A Denver-based pastor and supporter of FLN, accused of inciting violence against Rwanda through her X (Twitter) account, @SOS_Rwanda, and promoting FLN and P5 propaganda.

25. Sylvestre Nduwayezu (53)

Alias Jet Lee, based in Kampala, Uganda, accused of recruiting fighters, coordinating arms purchases, and planning terror attacks in connection with RUD-Urunana and P5.

Officials say the move reflects Rwanda’s intensified efforts to disrupt terrorist networks and cut off their financing channels, especially those operating abroad.

Analysts note that many of the named individuals have long been under international scrutiny for links to armed groups operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring states.

IGIHE

The $274.5 million transaction, initially announced in May 2025, transfers ownership of approximately 1,467 tower sites across the country to Paradigm, establishing it as Rwanda’s leading independent tower operator. The sites underpin the mobile networks that connect more than 5.3 million Rwandans to essential services such as mobile money and digital communications.

Backed by a consortium of international investors, including Convergence Partners, British International Investment (BII), and Proparco, Paradigm Tower Ventures aims to enhance connectivity and lower the cost of cellular services across Rwanda and the region. The deal was arranged and financed by Rand Merchant Bank, a division of FirstRand Bank Limited.

Paradigm said the acquisition would help improve network quality and affordability, driving digital inclusion in line with Rwanda’s national digital transformation goals. Research indicates that a 10 percent increase in mobile penetration can raise GDP per capita by 2.5 percent in African economies.

Stephen Harris, co-founder and chairman of Paradigm, said the company was 'delighted to be expanding into the Rwandan market,' pledging to improve infrastructure efficiency and sustainability.

“Our focus is to improve existing infrastructure to be more efficient and environmentally friendly, alongside facilitating the improvement of mobile network coverage and connectivity,” he said.

Andile Ngcaba, Founder and Chairman of Convergence Partners, said the investment represents 'the kind of opportunity where shared conviction, capable partners and sound fundamentals come together to create lasting value across the Continent.' He added that the platform would serve as 'a critical enabler' for emerging data, cloud, and AI-driven services in Africa.

Abhinav Sinha, Managing Director and Head of Technologies, Telecoms and Sustainable Industrials at BII, said the investment underscores a commitment to bridging Africa’s digital divide.

“By enabling affordable, high-quality connectivity, we’re helping unlock opportunities for millions, whether it’s a student accessing online learning, a small business owner using mobile payments, or a healthcare worker connecting with remote communities,' he stated.

Djalal Khimdjee, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proparco, said the transaction reflects the organisation’s 'trust and continued support' for Convergence and its mission to expand digital coverage across Africa.

Paradigm’s entry into Rwanda reflects investor confidence in the country’s stable policy environment and strong demand for connectivity. Beyond this initial acquisition, the company plans to build and operate additional carrier-neutral tower assets, supporting mobile operators in expanding coverage and accelerating digital inclusion across Africa.

The transaction, initially announced in May 2025, transfers ownership of approximately 1,467 tower sites across the country to Paradigm, establishing it as Rwanda’s leading independent tower operator.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

According to media reports, Odinga, 80, collapsed at the Ayurvedic facility, a center for traditional Indian medicine, where he had been staying for the past six days and was quickly taken to the Sreedhareeyam Ayurvedic Eye Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:52 am.

It is reported that Odinga had been following a routine of morning walks and treatments at the hospital, accompanied by his daughter and close family members.

Odinga served as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, playing a key role in national reconciliation and constitutional reforms.

He was instrumental in the power-sharing agreement that ended the 2007—08 post-election violence.

Known for his fiery speeches and grassroots connections, he also led the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and remained a prominent political figure, contesting several presidential elections.

On October 9, Odinga’s brother, Oburu Odinga, confirmed that Raila was unwell and receiving treatment but reassured the public that he was on the path to recovery.

He dismissed rumors about Raila’s health, clarifying that his illness was minor and required medical attention abroad.

Former Kenyan Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, passed away on Wednesday morning in India, following a cardiac arrest during his daily morning walk.

IGIHE

“The impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina has been voted. Among the 131 members of parliament present during the vote, 130 voted in favor of the impeachment, while one abstained,” said the assembly’s Vice President, Siteny Randrianasoloniaiko, following the session.

The decision came just hours after Rajoelina announced the dissolution of the National Assembly.

Local media quoted Randrianasoloniaiko as saying that the dissolution decree was “devoid of legal validity due to the absence of formal validation.”

On the same day, Colonel Michael Randrianirina, a Malagasy military officer, announced that state power in Madagascar has been taken over by a military council comprising members of the army, gendarmerie and national police.

Randrianirina said the constitution has been suspended and new national structures established “to meet the aspirations of the Malagasy people.”

He also announced the dissolution of key public institutions, including the Senate, the High Constitutional Court and the National Independent Electoral Commission.

The National Assembly of Madagascar, the lower house of the country’s bicameral parliament, on Tuesday voted to impeach President Andry Rajoelina during an extraordinary session in the capital, Antananarivo, despite the Presidency’s earlier announcement that the assembly had been dissolved.

Xinhua

They made the call during the official opening of the Second Africa Skills Week, which is jointly organized by the African Union (AU) and the Ethiopian Ministry of Labor and Skills under the theme “Powering Africa’s Industrial Future: Skills for Innovation, Growth, and Sustainability,” running from Monday to Friday at the AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.

Addressing the event, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emphasized the strategic importance of skills development to advance inclusive growth, create decent jobs, and realize the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.

“The urgency of skilling our youth cannot be overstated. We must convert our demographic dividend into a productive, inclusive, and globally competitive workforce. This is why the African Union has placed skills at the heart of Agenda 2063,” he said.

Youssouf also outlined key imperative actions, including harnessing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence and strengthening policy coherence and regional integration for skills development.

The continental gathering brought together policymakers, experts, industry leaders, educators, development partners, and young innovators to deliberate on skills development and youth empowerment across the continent. The event also witnessed the official launch of the 10-year Continental Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Strategy 2025-2034.

“We are not simply discussing the future. We are here to build foundations that will drive our ambitions and aspirations. The crucial and key force that transforms Africa’s potential into economic power is skill,” said Ethiopian Minister of Labor and Skills Muferihat Kamil.

The Second Africa Skills Week is a platform dedicated to advancing Africa’s skills transformation agenda, focusing on strengthening skills for industrial growth, enhancing TVET, and fostering public-private partnerships.

Zhang Wei, charge d’affaires at the Mission of China to the AU, reaffirmed China’s commitment as a “reliable friend and sincere partner.”

“China stands ready to work hand in hand with the AU and African countries to further deepen cooperation on education and skills development, and help more young Africans master the golden key to employment and contribute to realizing the grand vision of Agenda 2063,” Zhang said at the opening ceremony.

The week-long event features high-level dialogues, technical sessions and exhibitions.

According to the AU, the gathering is expected to generate tangible results, including accelerated implementation of the continental TVET strategy, stronger alignment between skills and industrialization, and greater participation of youth and women in shaping Africa’s industrial future.

African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf speaks at the opening session of the second edition of the Africa Skills Week in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Oct. 14, 2025. The second edition of the Africa Skills Week, jointly organized by the African Union and the Ethiopian Ministry of Labor and Skills, runs under the theme “Powering Africa’s Industrial Future: Skills for Innovation, Growth, and Sustainability” from Monday to Friday at the AU headquarters in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa.

Xinhua

The event, renowned for attracting top emerging professional golfers from across the UK, provided Nsanzuwera an opportunity to test his skills on one of Scotland’s most historic and challenging courses.

According to the official Tartan Pro Tour leaderboard, he appeared on the entry list, completed all rounds, and made the cut to play in the final round, demonstrating both skill and consistency against a highly competitive field. Preliminary results indicate he finished approximately three under par (-3).

In addition to his tournament play, Nsanzuwera had the unique opportunity to train and practice at the Golf Academy at St Andrews Driving Bays, one of the world’s premier golf training facilities.

This experience allowed him to refine his technique, interact with international professionals, and immerse himself in the rich golfing culture of Scotland, often celebrated as the 'Home of Golf.'

'Celestin’s dedication and recent successes continue to bring pride not only to Kigali Golf Resort & Villas but also to the entire Rwandan golf community,' said a spokesperson from the Communications Office. 'His participation at Duddingston and training at St Andrews exemplify the growing international presence of Rwandan golfers.'

Celestin Nsanzuwera’s appearance at the Duddingston Classic follows a remarkable 2025 season, including victories at the Rwanda Golf Open, the Sunshine Development Tour (East Africa Swing), and the Johnnie Walker Uganda Professional Open, reinforcing his position as Rwanda’s most prominent professional golfer.

Based at Kigali Golf Resort & Villas, Celestin Nsanzuwera is a professional golfer recognized for his precision, composure under pressure, and dedication to representing Rwanda on international golf circuits.

Celestin Nsanzuwera, Rwanda’s leading professional golfer, successfully competed in the Duddingston Classic, part of the Tartan Pro Tour, held at Duddingston Golf Club in Edinburgh from October 6—8, 2025.

According to the official Tartan Pro Tour leaderboard, Nsanzuwera appeared on the entry list, completed all rounds, and made the cut to play in the final round, demonstrating both skill and consistency against a highly competitive field.

Nsanzuwera had the unique opportunity to train and practice at the Golf Academy at St Andrews Driving Bays, one of the world’s premier golf training facilities.

Celestin Nsanzuwera’s appearance at the Duddingston Classic follows a remarkable 2025 season, including victories at the Rwanda Golf Open, the Sunshine Development Tour (East Africa Swing), and the Johnnie Walker Uganda Professional Open.

IGIHE

Born on January 7, 1945, in Maseno, Nyanza Province, Raila Odinga was the son of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, Kenya’s first Vice President and a key figure in the country’s independence movement. His father’s legacy shaped Raila’s political consciousness from an early age.

Odinga pursued technical studies in East Germany in the 1960s, training as a mechanical engineer before returning to Kenya to teach and later work at the Kenya Bureau of Standards. His professional career soon gave way to political activism, as he became increasingly involved in the struggle for democracy during the one-party era. He was imprisoned for about seven years during the 1980s for his pro-democracy activism under the one-party regime.

In the 1990s, Odinga was elected Member of Parliament for Lang’ata and emerged as one of the most vocal proponents of multi-party democracy. His persistence positioned him at the heart of Kenya’s pro-reform movement, earning both admiration and criticism for his defiance of entrenched political power.

Odinga’s first presidential bid came in 1997, marking the beginning of a long series of campaigns for the country’s highest office. His 2007 election battle against then-President Mwai Kibaki was one of Kenya’s most contested polls, sparking post-election violence that claimed more than 1,200 lives. The crisis was resolved through a power-sharing deal that made Odinga Prime Minister under a coalition government from 2008 to 2013.

During his tenure, Odinga played a crucial role in the formulation and adoption of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, a landmark reform that devolved power and strengthened democratic institutions. Despite further presidential bids in 2013, 2017, and 2022, he never attained the presidency but remained an enduring symbol of opposition and reform.

From 2018 to 2023, Odinga served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in Africa, further cementing his influence on the continental stage.

In 2022, he contested the presidency against William Ruto and challenged the results in court. The outcome was upheld, sparking protests from the opposition.

At the height of Gen Z economic-related protests in 2024, Odinga joined forces with President Ruto to form a broad-based government, resulting in several of his allies being appointed to key positions. In response to growing criticism, he later explained that his decision was motivated by the need to quell potential political instability.

He also campaigned for the African Union Commission Chairperson position in 2024—2025 but lost to Mahamoud Ali Youssouf of Djibouti.

Raila Odinga is survived by his wife, Ida Odinga, and their children: Rosemary, Raila Jr., and Winnie. His eldest son, Fidel Odinga, passed away in 2015.

Raila Odinga’s passing marks the end of an era in Kenyan politics, that of a resilient statesman whose quest for democracy, social justice, and good governance reshaped his country’s political landscape.

Veteran Kenyan politician and former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga died on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, in India at the age of 80.

Wycliffe Nyamasege