President William Ruto to depart Kenya this afternoon for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ahead of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly.
Ruto will meet up with African leaders to set continental priorities and advance Agenda 2063.
As AU Champion for Institutional Reform, Ruto is set to present a progress report on enhancing the Union’s effectiveness, credibility, and financial sustainability.
“Our goal is to ensure the African Union works efficiently for the people it serves, with transparency, accountability, and robust financial management,” State house spokesperson Hussein Mohammed said in a statement on Friday.
President Ruto will also chair the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change and table its report, reinforcing Africa’s collective stance on climate action, adaptation, resilience, and climate finance.
“Africa must speak with one voice on climate matters. We are committed to practical solutions that protect our continent while driving sustainable growth,” Hussein said.
In addition, he will chair the inaugural African Continental Free Trade Area Committee meeting, underscoring Kenya’s commitment to deeper regional integration and expanded intra-African trade. “AfCFTA is not just a trade agreement; it is a platform to unlock Africa’s economic potential and create jobs for our youth,” he said.
On the summit margins, he is expected to hold bilateral meetings to strengthen partnerships in trade, investment, health, and security, while mobilising support for Kenya’s national transformation agenda, which includes infrastructure development, agro-industrial growth supported by expanded irrigation, and energy security.
“President Ruto’s engagements at the AU Summit are aimed at consolidating Kenya’s leadership in Africa, promoting sustainable development, and ensuring the country’s strategic interests are advanced,” he said.
The AU summit comes at a critical time as Africa navigates economic pressures, climate challenges, and opportunities for deeper continental integration.
