Ruto made the remarks while addressing intelligence chiefs from across the continent at the Mashariki Cooperation Conference in Mombasa.
He said African leaders have mandated him to spearhead efforts aimed at reviewing and transforming the organisation to better respond to the continent’s evolving needs.
The president harped on the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the AU’s structure and institutions, and called for sweeping reforms to reposition the continental body to effectively drive Africa’s future growth.
“My colleagues, heads of state, gave me the assignment to work on the reform of the African Union institutions and organs to make them fit for purpose for a time such as this,” he said.
“I can tell you without an iota of doubt that the African Union, as it is today, is not fit for purpose. It is not fit to provide the leadership that this continent needs going into the future. And therefore, there is need for reform of the African Union.”
The Kenyan leader also urged security and intelligence officials to contribute to shaping a more effective AU capable of unlocking Africa’s vast potential.
“I am asking you as intelligence leaders to assist us to figure out what kind of African Union we need to unlock the opportunities that exist in our continent,” he said.
Ruto warned that while Africa could become the world’s largest market, with a rapidly growing population, failure to properly harness these advantages could pose significant risks.
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