Details of Raila’s meeting with UK envoy Neil Wigan

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Tuesday held a meeting with the United Kingdom High Commissioner, Neil Wigan.

According to Raila, the two discussed among other issues the evolving international system and the state of the country.

He said that they also touched the relations between Kenya and the UK.

“I've had a very illuminating discussion with HE Neil Wigan, the United Kingdom High Commissioner to Kenya this morning focusing on our country's long-running relationship with the UK, the state of the Kenyan nation and the evolving international system,” Raila said.

The former PM noted that he was happy to learn of the UK’s intent to further strengthen ties with Kenya.

He said this would be done by moving from giving aid to Kenya, as has been the case for many years, to economic investment.

Raila said he was also happy to hear of the UK and Europe’s plan to reach out to other parts of the world in efforts to engage on key issues affecting the workings of international systems.

“I was happy to learn that the UK is keen to strengthen ties with our countries through a shift from traditional aid to economic investment. I was also happy to hear from Mr Wigan of the UK and Europe's determination to maintain engagement with the international community, including Africa, on issues that have kept the international system working. Long live Kenya-UK partnership.”

The last public meeting between Raila and Wigan was in April 2024 as he planned to fully start his African Union Commission chairmanship campaigns.

Wigan was one of the Diplomats Raila met separately at his home.

Others were Norwegian Ambassador to Kenya Gunnar Andreas Holm, Australia's High Commissioner Jenny Da Rin.

Raila said that during the meetings, they reviewed the existing political, security, economic, and humanitarian support for Kenya and other African countries.

He stated that they also discussed the situation in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo and the need for lasting peace in the region.

Raila said he also shared his vision for an all-inclusive Pan-African policy priorities.

"I also shared my vision for expanded cooperation on Pan African policy priorities, including a free trade regime and integration across the continent, removal of non-trade barriers, global cooperation, stability and free movement of people, infrastructure development, open skies and investment in energy and internet connectivity," Raila said.