The vision for a truly integrated and seamless Africa is gaining undeniable momentum. Leading this vital conversation is former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who recently delivered a compelling address at the 2025 International Conference on African Development (ICAD) in Abuja, Nigeria. His message was clear, bold, and resonant: the time has come for African governments to dismantle internal barriers, specifically urging the elimination of visa restrictions for intra-African travel and the opening up of the continent’s airspace to African airlines.
Odinga argued passionately that the myriad benefits of free movement across African borders far eclipse the modest revenues currently generated from visa fees. This sentiment strikes at the core of a long-standing challenge for the continent – artificial divisions that hinder trade, collaboration, and the natural flow of human capital. He emphasized that by removing these unnecessary barriers, Africa can unlock unprecedented opportunities, particularly for its dynamic and fast-growing youth population, ultimately driving accelerated development across the continent. The ICAD 2025 forum, a vital convergence of leaders, policymakers, and development experts from across Africa, served as the ideal platform for this transformative discourse on strategies for accelerating growth and integration.
Central to Odinga's vision is the profound belief in the power of Africa’s youth. Comprising the majority of the continent's population, this vibrant demographic, he asserted, must be empowered to spearhead Africa’s transformation. "It’s their time to deliver the dreams of our founders," Odinga declared, underscoring the urgent need to invest in this critical segment of society. He articulated a clear pathway to harnessing their immense potential, highlighting good governance, youth-focused policies, and robust economic opportunities as essential pillars for their success and, by extension, the continent's prosperity.
The economic imperative behind Odinga's call is undeniable. A borderless Africa, where people, goods, and services can move freely, promises to ignite intra-African trade, stimulate cross-border investments, and foster a more robust and resilient continental economy. Such integration would not only create a larger, more accessible market but also encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly among the youth who are eager to contribute to Africa's growth story. The potential for job creation, knowledge transfer, and shared prosperity is immense.
Odinga was not alone in championing this forward-thinking agenda at the ICAD conference. He was joined by other influential figures, including Plateau State Governor H.E. Caleb Mutfwang and former African Union Ambassador to the U.S., Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao, signaling a growing consensus among leaders and thinkers about the urgency of continental integration.
