Lake Region varsity student leaders rally for youth voice in AU after Raila’s bid
A coalition of student leaders from universities across Kenya, known as the Lake Side Caucus, has called for greater youth participation in African Union (AU) affairs following former Prime Minister Raila Odinga’s bid for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairmanship.
In a joint press statement delivered in Nairobi, the student leaders congratulated Odinga on his campaign, acknowledging his lifelong contribution to social, political, and economic transformation in Kenya and across Africa. They also commended President William Ruto for his extensive diplomatic efforts in supporting Odinga’s candidacy.
The student leaders noted that despite Kenya’s exemplary diplomatic push, multiple external factors influenced the outcome of the AU election. They joined President Ruto and Odinga in congratulating the winning candidate, reaffirming their support for the AU’s mission of unity, peace, and prosperity.
“Kenya has made an indelible mark on the African Union, and we will continue to build on that incredible effort,” the statement read, praising Ruto’s commitment to the continent’s leadership.
Quoting Aristotle, the student leaders lauded the camaraderie between Ruto and Odinga, stating: “Friendship is a single soul dwelling in two bodies.”
In an ambitious policy proposal, the Lake Side Caucus urged the AU to establish mechanisms for active university student participation in its activities. Moreover they proposed the creation of AU internship and mentorship programs, allowing university students to gain hands-on experience in continental governance.
Such initiatives, they argued would foster a deeper understanding of Pan-Africanism and cultivate future African leaders
The caucus recommended the establishment of university-based forums across Africa, facilitating intellectual exchange and cultural dialogue.
Additionally they called for digital repositories to document the contributions of African leaders, including founders of the OAU, Nelson Mandela, and Raila Odinga.
Universities such as University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, University of Cape Town, University of Cairo, Kwame Nkrumah University, and Cheikh Anta Diop University were highlighted as potential partners in this initiative.
The student leaders suggested the creation of AU-backed research centers in universities, dedicated to studying and preserving Africa’s democratic history.
These centers would serve as hubs for governance studies, commemorating those who fought for Africa’s second liberation in the post-Cold War era.
The caucus emphasized the role of student movements in African history, calling for greater student involvement in shaping the continent’s governance structures.
To push these proposals forward, the Lake Side Caucus announced plans to seek an audience with President Ruto, Odinga, and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi. They aim to explore diplomatic pathways to escalate these youth-driven reforms to the AU leadership.
The student leaders urged national and continental stakeholders to support their call for youth inclusion in AU governance, emphasizing that young Africans must have a seat at the table in shaping the continent’s future.
Wrapping up their statement, the caucus urged the African Union to embrace their proposals, emphasizing the need to bridge the gap between young people and African governance structures.
“Together, we can create a continent that is united, prosperous, and truly reflective of the aspirations of its people.”
Student leaders are now shifting the conversation towards ensuring sustainable youth involvement in African leadership.