President William Ruto has this afternoon departed Kenya for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in a high-stakes move to attend the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly, State House has confirmed.
The sudden departure, which State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed announced, occurs because continental leaders face increasing pressures from global economic changes and climate emergencies and efforts to change the AU institutional system. The summit, which convenes African heads of state and government, is expected to set new strategic priorities for the continent under Agenda 2063.
The ninth official trip to Ethiopia constitutes Ruto’s ninth official visit to the country since he took office. The visit demonstrates Kenya’s strong diplomatic relationship with the African Union and its crucial role in leading continental organizations. Ruto will present a progress report on institutional reform, which he made his main presidential goal, so that the Union can operate better, gain more trust, and sustain its financial operations.
In his role as AU Champion for Institutional Reform, Ruto will lead the Committee of African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change, where he will present an important report that aims to unify Africa’s climate action and adaptation and climate finance stance at upcoming global negotiations.
The president will lead the first African Continental Free Trade Area Committee meeting, which State House officials announced because it shows Kenya’s commitment to developing stronger economic ties with other African nations. The African Union considers intra-African trade to be essential for achieving its long-term economic transformation goals.
Ruto will conduct bilateral meetings with important partners at the AU Assembly to develop partnerships in trade and investment and health and security and Kenya’s national development programs. Government insiders note these engagements are crucial to mobilizing support for Kenya’s national priorities, including infrastructure development, agro-industrial growth, and energy security.
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