NAIROBI, Kenya — President William Ruto has called for accelerated reforms within the African Union, urging African states to strengthen institutions, improve financing systems, and deepen domestic resource mobilisation.
President Ruto made the remarks after chairing the 4th Session of the Virtual Ad Hoc Oversight Committee of Heads of State on African Union Institutional Reforms, where leaders reviewed progress on the continent’s reform agenda amid shifting global geopolitical dynamics and weakening multilateral systems.
He said Africa must move beyond dependency and strengthen its capacity to address internal challenges through effective continental structures and full implementation of Agenda 2063.
“Africa must take greater charge of its future through stronger institutions, sustainable financing, enhanced domestic resource mobilisation, and full implementation of Agenda 2063,” The President said.
The President noted that the reform process is not limited to restructuring institutions within the AU, but is aimed at building a more responsive, self-reliant, and efficient body capable of delivering tangible outcomes for African citizens.
“The reform process is not simply about adjusting systems, but building a more effective, self-reliant and responsive African Union capable of delivering for the citizens of the continent,” he added.
The meeting took place against the backdrop of growing global calls for reform in international governance systems, with African leaders increasingly pushing for stronger representation in global decision-making forums.
Regional analysts say the push for AU reforms reflects broader concerns over Africa’s vulnerability in global economic negotiations, security coordination, and climate financing, particularly as traditional multilateral institutions face mounting pressure and credibility challenges.
The reforms under discussion are anchored in long-term continental priorities aimed at improving efficiency within AU organs, reducing reliance on external funding, and strengthening coordination among member states.
Agenda 2063 remains the AU’s flagship blueprint for socio-economic transformation, targeting inclusive growth, integration, peace, and sustainable development across the continent over the coming decades.
As geopolitical alliances continue to shift globally, African leaders are expected to intensify discussions on institutional reform, financial autonomy, and collective bargaining power in international systems.
