‎President William Ruto has declared that the African Union in its current form is “not fit for purpose,” calling for sweeping reforms to align it with Africa’s future ambitions and challenges.

‎Ruto revealed that fellow African heads of state had tasked him with spearheading efforts to reform the AU’s institutions and organs. He said the continent risks falling behind if urgent changes are not undertaken.

‎“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,” Ruto said during the Mashariki cooperation conference in Mombasa.

“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.”

‎The President emphasised that Africa stands at a critical juncture, with its population projected to account for nearly a quarter of the world’s people in the coming decades. 

‎He warned that without a more effective and responsive continental body, this demographic advantage could turn into a liability.

‎“There is a need for reform of the African Union,” he added, urging intelligence chiefs to play a central role in shaping a new framework. 

‎“I am asking you as intelligence leaders to assist us in figuring out what kind of African Union we need, one that can unlock the potential that exists in our continent.”

‎Ruto noted that Africa’s vast natural resources, youthful population, and expanding markets present enormous opportunities. 

‎However, he cautioned that weak coordination, slow decision-making, and institutional inefficiencies within the AU could hinder progress.

‎“As we march into the future and become the single largest market, we must take advantage of that position,” he said. “Otherwise, it can pose a major risk for us.”

‎The call for reform comes amid growing debate among African leaders on the effectiveness of the AU in addressing pressing issues such as security, economic integration, and global competitiveness.

‎Ruto’s remarks signal renewed momentum toward restructuring the continental body to better respond to emerging geopolitical and economic realities.