Ruto Pledges to Work With Burundi’s President as He Assumes AU Chairmanship

President William Ruto has congratulated Burundi’s President Évariste Ndayishimiye following his assumption of office as Chairperson of the African Union, pledging Kenya’s support in advancing institutional reforms across the continental body.

In a statement issued during the African Union 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ruto said Kenya looks forward to working closely with Ndayishimiye to push forward “meaningful reforms” aimed at strengthening the union’s effectiveness and impact.

"Our best wishes to President Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi as he takes over as Chairperson of the African Union. We look forward to working with him to drive meaningful reforms of the African Union," said President William Ruto

The Kenyan leader also thanked outgoing Chairperson João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço for his leadership during his tenure, commending his service and dedication to the continental organisation.

The African Union Assembly meeting in Addis Ababa brought together heads of state and government from across the continent to deliberate on key political, economic and security issues affecting Africa, including regional integration, peacebuilding and institutional reforms.

Ndayishimiye’s election to the rotating chairmanship comes at a time when member states are seeking to accelerate implementation of AU reforms aimed at improving governance structures, financial sustainability and the union’s response to emerging continental challenges.

Kenya reaffirmed its commitment to supporting AU initiatives and strengthening collaboration among member states to advance Africa’s development agenda.