By Ng’wono Bwo’Otwere
President William Ruto has urged urgent reforms of the African Union (AU).
He warned that without change, Africa risks losing global influence.
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Chairing the AU Institutional Reform Ad Hoc Committee, Ruto led discussions on eight priority areas under Assembly Decision 920.
He called reform “urgent, not optional.”
“This reform is doable,” he said.
“It is possible and necessary to have an effective African Union, and we can do it quickly.”
He dismissed cost concerns, noting many proposed changes require no financial outlay.
Delay, he argued, would weaken Africa’s collective power and slow development.
The reform roadmap includes revitalising peace and security, predictable financing, operationalising the African Court, streamlining agendas, revamping Parliament, categorising decisions, clarifying labour division, and restructuring institutions.
Ruto announced a forthcoming summit of Heads of State.
Leaders will refine recommendations and submit written feedback to the AU Secretariat before February.
“By the February summit, we must have a document reflecting all African States,” he urged, stressing inclusivity and legitimacy in the reform process.
AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf praised Ruto’s leadership. He said Ruto’s sustained commitment has been crucial in pushing reforms forward.
Ruto concluded that without meaningful change, the AU risks becoming ineffective, costing Africa opportunities and diminishing its influence in a shifting global landscape.
