Kenya’s president, William Ruto, has stated that the African Union (AU) is no longer fit for purpose.
Ruto made the remarks while addressing intelligence chiefs from across Africa at the Mashariki Cooperation Conference in Mombasa.
He said African leaders have tasked him with leading efforts to review and transform the organisation so it can better respond to the continent’s changing needs.
The president stressed the need for a broad overhaul of the AU’s structures and institutions, calling for sweeping reforms to reposition the body for Africa’s future development.
“My colleagues, heads of state, gave me the assignment to work on the reform of the African Union institutions and organs to make them fit for purpose for a time such as this,” he said.
“I can tell you without an iota of doubt that the African Union, as it is today, is not fit for purpose. It is not fit to provide the leadership that this continent needs going into the future. And therefore, there is need for reform of the African Union.”
Ruto also urged intelligence and security leaders to play a role in shaping a more effective AU capable of unlocking Africa’s opportunities.
“I am asking you as intelligence leaders to assist us to figure out what kind of African Union we need to unlock the opportunities that exist in our continent,” he said.
He further warned that although Africa has the potential to become the world’s largest market due to its growing population, failing to harness these advantages could create serious challenges.