Kamau Afrika Returns to the Political Arena with Mayoral Bid Focused on Equity and Reform

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Longtime community activist and real estate investor Kamau Afrika has launched his campaign for Mayor of Birmingham, bringing a grassroots message of equity, transparency, and revitalization to the 2025 municipal election. Afrika, who resides in the historic Smithfield neighborhood on Dynamite Hill, says his candidacy is a "labor of love" driven by concern for the city's underserved communities and deteriorating infrastructure.

Afrika, born Marlon Walker, adopted his African name in 1985, meaning "quiet warrior" in Kikuyu. He has run for public office multiple times over the past three decades, including previous bids for mayor, city council, and county commission. Now 68, he says he's stepping forward again because "there's got to be change, and if it hasn't been done in seven years, I just can't sit down and stay quiet anymore".

Platform Highlights

Afrika's campaign centers on restoring fairness and opportunity to Birmingham's neighborhoods, especially those in the west, southwest, and north parts of the city. His priorities include:

- Public Safety: Addressing police staffing shortages and advocating for community policing and mentorship programs for youth.

- Youth Development: Constructing two state-of-the-art athletic complexes to promote excellence and engagement.

- Economic Equity: Ensuring transparency in city contracts and expanding support for Black-owned businesses.

- Infrastructure and Sanitation: Improving roads, waste management, and launching comprehensive recycling initiatives.

- Food Access and Education: Tackling food deserts and revitalizing agriculture and STEM education in schools.

Afrika has criticized Mayor Randall Woodfin's administration for what he describes as misplaced priorities, including the $90 million investment in Protective Stadium. "We should have gotten a domed stadium with at least as many seats as Legion Field," he said, arguing that the BJCC and Uptown District have created "a city within a city" that doesn't return tax revenue to Birmingham.

A Legacy of Activism

Afrika's activism dates back to the 1980s, when he helped secure Smithfield's designation as a Historic District and Enterprise Zone. He's known for his outspoken views on corporate welfare, youth accountability, and urban renewal. His past proposals have included parental responsibility ordinances, bans on sagging pants, and legal challenges to preserve public ownership of the Birmingham Water Works.

Despite past electoral defeats, Afrika says his life experiences-including raising his daughter as a widower and working multiple jobs-have prepared him to lead. "I believe that I've got a special gift at listening to people, not being overbearing," he said. "I would be a good person to delegate responsibility rather than trying to insist on doing everything myself".

Election Outlook

Afrika joins a crowded field of candidates challenging Woodfin, including State Rep. Juandalynn Givan, activist Jerimy Littlepage, and several others. The election is scheduled for August 26, 2025, and crime, infrastructure, and economic development are expected to dominate the debate.

Afrika's campaign is rooted in his belief that Birmingham's future depends on bold leadership and community-driven solutions. "I'm doing this because I just see some choices that are made in terms of overbearing corporate welfare," he said. "There's got to be change".