President William Ruto has called for a fundamental shift in the relationship between Africa and its international partners, saying the continent is seeking partnerships based on equality, investment and mutual benefit rather than aid and dependency.
Speaking on Africa’s position in the evolving global order, Ruto said the continent was united in demanding a new framework of engagement that recognizes Africa as an equal partner in global affairs.
“We are presenting a new paradigm shift of relationship between Africa and our partners. This is no longer going to be a relationship about dependency; it’s going to be a relationship about sovereign equality,” Ruto said.
The President stressed that Africa was moving away from traditional models centered on aid and charity and instead pursuing partnerships that create value for both sides.
“It is not going to be a relationship about aid, charity or assistance. It is going to be a relationship that we want about mutually beneficial partnerships,” he stated.
Ruto argued that Africa’s vast natural resources, renewable energy potential, arable land, growing markets and youthful workforce should form the basis of investment-driven cooperation.
“Extraction is no longer acceptable or tenable. Going forward, the most consequential and beneficial relationship is through investments that are mutually beneficial, so that African assets and resources benefit both Africa and those who invest with us,” he said.
The President also spoke about the changing global landscape, saying the international order that has existed for decades is undergoing significant transformation.
“We believe that a new San Francisco moment is imminent. The world order as we have known it is faltering. It is not that it’s going to happen; it has already happened,” Ruto remarked.
While reaffirming the importance of institutions such as the United Nations, the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, he insisted that reforms are necessary to ensure they reflect current global realities.
“We need a new relationship and a new engagement. Africa was not present when these institutions were configured. This time around, Africa must be at the center of it,” he said.
Ruto criticized what he described as an international governance system that lacks adequate representation and accountability, particularly regarding Africa’s role in global decision-making.
“We cannot continue to have an international governance order that is not democratic, not representative and not accountable,” he said.
The Head of State reiterated Africa’s long-standing demand for greater representation within the United Nations system, including reforms to the UN Security Council.
“Whether it is seats at the UN Security Council, the use of the veto, or accountability, these are issues that must be addressed. This is not about accommodating Africa; it goes to the heart of the legitimacy and credibility of the United Nations,” he stated.
Ruto further argued that the future UN must embrace reforms that make it more transparent and responsive to the needs of all regions.
“The United Nations in the new order must be run not by an administrator but by a reformer. It must be representative, democratic and accountable,” he said.
The President noted that African leaders had built consensus around these positions and would engage global partners candidly on the need for reforms.
“We are going to have a very candid and forthright conversation with our partners. These are positions we have consolidated as a continent,” Ruto said.
He expressed optimism that the changing global environment presents a unique opportunity for Africa to secure its rightful place in international affairs.
“I think it is a great opportunity for Africa to position itself rightfully where it truly belongs in the global order,” he added.
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