Gideon Moi urges African countries to take centre-stage in global affairs

Kenya African National Union (Kanu) party chairman Gideon Moi says African countries must take centre stage in global issues while affirming their sovereignty.

The Kanu boss said that African nations can no longer sit back and watch other players make decisions on international issues affecting them.

To claim its rightful place, Moi said Africa must move from a beneficiary of global goodwill to a co-architect of global progress.

“The world is no longer defined by a single dominant power but by many centres of influence. In this multipolar reality, Africa must not be a spectator, but a strategic player by asserting its interests, redefining its partnerships, and shaping the terms of its engagement,” Moi said.

He added, “This means pursuing cooperation that is equitable, partnerships that are mutually beneficial, and alliances that respect the sovereignty and aspirations of African nations.”

The former Baringo Senator said an opportunity for centre-right movements has rose to demonstrate that democracy, liberty, and economic prosperity are not competing ideals but complementary pillars of a just society

“We meet here today at a time of great change and, admittedly, great uncertainty. Across the world, we are witnessing the rise of radical populism that exploits division, the resurgence of extreme nationalism that thrives on fear, and the erosion of democratic values that once bound nations together,” he said.

Speaking at a Nairobi hotel on Tuesday during this year’s Democracy Union of Africa (DUA) Forum, the KANU boss said it is about building bridges, not walls; creating opportunity, not dependency; and advancing prosperity that leaves no one behind.

Moi added; “At its heart, the center-right philosophy is about balance, between freedom and responsibility, between the market and the state, between individual ambition and collective well-being.”

The forum was jointly hosted by the Democratic Party (DP) and the Kenya African National Union (KANU).

The DUA forum, held under the theme “Navigating Africa’s Strategic Position in a Multipolar World: Towards Equitable and Mutually Beneficial Partnerships,” brought together political leaders, policymakers, and scholars from over 25 countries.

It was graced by former Ghana President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo; South Africa Deputy Minister of Transport, and National Spokesperson of the Inkatha Freedom Party, Hon. Mkhuleko Hlengwa; and the Chairperson of the Democracy Union of Africa, Ms. Louissa Atta-Agyemang, among others.

“This platform provides an important space for centre-right parties across the continent to reflect on our shared democratic ideals and chart pathways for stronger, value-based governance,” DP Leader Justin Muturi said.

Muturi said the DUA Forum 2025 as a crucial platform for advancing democratic ideals and strengthening value-based governance across the continent