Kenya’s president William Ruto has sharply criticised the African Union, declaring that the continental body in its current form is “not fit” to lead Africa into the future and calling for sweeping institutional reforms.
Speaking at the Mashariki Cooperation Conference, Ruto said the AU lacks the capacity and responsiveness required to address the continent’s mounting political, security and economic challenges.
“I can tell you without an iota of doubt that the African Union, as it is today, is not fit to provide the leadership that this continent needs going into the future,” Ruto said.
The Kenyan leader stressed the urgency of reforming the AU’s governance structures, noting that he had been tasked by fellow African heads of state to help review and reshape its institutions.
“My colleagues… gave me the assignment to work on the reform of the African Union institutions and organs to make them fit for purpose,” he said.
Ruto pointed to what he described as slow decision-making, weak coordination, and institutional inertia within the AU, warning that these shortcomings risk undermining Africa’s ability to respond effectively to crises.
Analysts say his remarks reflect growing frustration among African leaders over the AU’s handling of key issues, including military coups, democratic backsliding, and persistent insecurity across regions such as the Sahel and Sudan.
The AU, established to promote peace, security, and economic integration across the continent, has in recent years faced increasing scrutiny over its enforcement mechanisms and ability to respond decisively to conflicts and governance challenges.
Ruto also warned that Africa’s growing population and economic potential could become a liability if continental institutions fail to adapt.
“As we march into the future… we must take advantage of that position. Otherwise, it can pose a major risk for us,” he said.
Despite the push for reform, Ruto acknowledged resistance within the AU system, suggesting that internal political dynamics may slow efforts to overhaul the organization.
“There remains significant resistance within the union to implementing meaningful reforms,” he noted.
His comments add to a broader debate about the future of continental governance, as African leaders seek to strengthen institutions to match the continent’s growing geopolitical and economic influence.
The AU has yet to formally respond to Ruto’s latest remarks.
