President Ruto Chosen to Drive Reform Agenda at AU Commission

President William Ruto has been selected as the new African Union Champion for Institutional Reform during the ongoing Assembly of the African Union heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Having taken on President Paul Kagame's previous role, Ruto's primary task is to provide the necessary counsel, guidance, and motivation to aid in the completion of the Comprehensive Institutional Reform Initiative. Originally introduced in 2016, this reform targets improvements in both the African Union Commission, AU Organs, and Specialized Agencies. The aim is to improve the performance and productivity of these organizations in overseeing the African Union's initiatives.

Ruto has been a vocal supporter of reforming the AU Commission since its inception. A crucial aspect he has highlighted is the need for a robust funding system and empowering the Union to negotiate on behalf of African nations. He firmly believes that Africa must speak with one voice, and the AU is best placed to accomplish this.

While attending the 22nd Summit of COMESA Heads of State and governments in Zambia, Ruto talked about his exchanges with Pan-African Parliament legislators and emphasized how important it is for the African Union to reform in accordance with modern-day realities. He strongly signified the need to focus on the reform agenda of the AU. He stressed the importance of conducting a comprehensive evaluation and reorganization of the bureau, summits, committees, regional caucuses, secretariat, and commission. This would lead to a more streamlined continental governing entity capable of effectively participating in global affairs.

"I have had an engagement with legislators of the Pan African Parliament and implored on them the need to reform the African Union to conform with the current realities," he said.

The approaching African Union Summit is set to be a pivotal occasion for the continent. By prioritizing governance, security concerns within Africa and beyond, and education as key areas of investment, the Summit will establish the foundation for implementing Ruto's vision through practical strategies. The emphasis on education highlights a commitment to nurturing Africa's most valuable asset - its young population - over the long term. As Africa finds itself at a critical juncture in a rapidly evolving world, the AU's reform process, led by influential figures like Ruto and Kagame before him, serves as a guiding light for a prosperous, unified, and self-sufficient Africa.