Nairobi – Kenyan President William Ruto has declared that the African Union in its current form cannot provide the leadership Africa requires for the future, urging urgent and comprehensive reforms of the continental body.
Speaking during ongoing engagements on the state of continental governance, Ruto said the structure of the AU is inadequate to meet Africa’s evolving political, economic and security demands.
“I can tell you without an iota of doubt that the African Union as it is today is not fit for purpose, is not fit to provide the leadership that this continent needs going into the future. And therefore, there is a need for the reform of the African Union,” he said. 
His remarks have stirred debate among African leaders and policy analysts, as discussions intensify about how the AU can better respond to governance challenges, deepen economic integration and manage conflicts across the continent.
The AU, which unites member states from across Africa including the Kingdom of Eswatini, has in recent years faced criticism over its handling of political instability, armed conflicts and the slow pace of integration initiatives meant to boost trade and cooperation among African nations.
Ruto’s call comes at a time when several African governments are reviewing the effectiveness of continental institutions in driving development and positioning Africa as a stronger voice in global affairs.
The African Union was established in 2002, replacing the Organisation of African Unity. The transition marked a shift from the OAU’s focus on ending colonial rule and defending sovereignty to a broader mandate that includes promoting unity, peace, good governance and economic growth.
Unlike its predecessor, the AU was designed with greater authority to intervene in crises, including war crimes and unconstitutional changes of government. It also seeks to advance continental initiatives aimed at strengthening trade, infrastructure and cooperation among member states.
Ruto maintains that without structural changes, the AU will struggle to deliver the decisive leadership required to steer Africa into the future.
