President William Ruto is set to host a high-level retreat at State House on Monday, bringing together select African heads of state and government to deliberate on institutional reforms within the African Union (AU).

The meeting, chaired by Ruto in his capacity as the AU’s Champion for Institutional Reforms, marks a significant milestone in efforts to revamp the Union’s structures and enhance its effectiveness. Ruto assumed this role in February 2024, succeeding Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame.

The reforms, which have been ongoing since 2016, aim to revitalise the AU Commission (AUC), AU organs, and specialised agencies to make them more efficient and responsive to the continent’s needs. These changes are expected to improve the management of AU programmes and ensure the organisation remains fit for purpose.

Among the key topics on the agenda is financial autonomy. Leaders will explore innovative ways to reduce the AU’s reliance on external donors and achieve sustainable financing for its operations. This shift is seen as crucial for ensuring the Union’s independence and long-term viability.

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President Ruto emphasised the importance of these reforms, describing them as essential to keeping the Union’s institutions aligned with the evolving needs of Africa.

“I am committed to collaborating closely with Guinea-Bissau and other partners to drive this reform agenda and fulfil the mandate entrusted to me by the African leadership during the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government,” he stated.

Notable attendees already in Nairobi for the retreat include Comoros President Azali Assoumani, Ghana’s former President John Mahama, Guinea-Bissau’s President Umaro Sissoco Embalo, and Ethiopia’s representative, Taye Atske Selassie. AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki is also expected to attend the discussions.

The retreat is anticipated to outline a roadmap for accelerating institutional reforms and preparing for the presentation of the final report during the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU General Assembly, scheduled for February 15-16, 2025.

President Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to championing reforms within the AU, highlighting the importance of responsive and effective institutions in addressing the continent’s challenges and aspirations.

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