President William Ruto has renewed Kenya’s call for a more inclusive and representative United Nations, urging sweeping reforms to strengthen multilateral institutions at a time of growing global uncertainty.
Addressing diplomats during the New Year Diplomatic Briefing at State House, Nairobi, Ruto reiterated Africa’s long-standing demand for reform of the United Nations Security Council, arguing that the continent’s continued exclusion from permanent membership weakens the credibility of the global body.
“Africa’s continued exclusion, despite bearing a significant share of the Security Council’s agenda and peacekeeping responsibilities, undermines the legitimacy and effectiveness of the United Nations,” the President said, speaking to ambassadors, high commissioners and heads of international organisations based in Kenya.
Ruto said Kenya envisions a United Nations that is better equipped to respond decisively to today’s complex challenges, including conflict, humanitarian emergencies, global health threats and development pressures.
He reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to active diplomacy, stressing the importance of international cooperation in pursuit of shared prosperity.
“Kenya is committed to strengthening its diplomatic engagement with the international community for shared prosperity,” he said.
The President also restated Kenya’s support for a rules-based international order, warning that multilateralism is under strain at a time when global solidarity is most needed.
Kenya, he said, remains “a firm proponent of a rules-based international order” that upholds the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, as set out in the UN Charter.
Ruto cautioned that persistent funding gaps and administrative constraints were limiting the UN’s ability to respond effectively to conflicts, humanitarian crises and development needs, arguing that a strong and adequately resourced organisation is indispensable in managing interconnected global risks.
On regional peace and security, the President called for urgent international support to restore stability in Sudan through civilian-led processes. He also urged continued dialogue and peace efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, noting that regional stability is vital not only for Africa but for global security.
Within Africa, Ruto said Kenya backs a stronger and better-funded African Union, a more effective Pan-African Parliament and the operationalisation of the African Court of Justice. He also reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), describing it as a cornerstone of economic integration and growth.
Highlighting Kenya’s expanding global presence, Ruto noted that the country’s foreign missions have grown from six at independence to 70 today.
He said the launch of Kenya’s Foreign Policy 2024 was intended to align the country’s diplomatic priorities with shifting global realities, with a focus on regional integration, economic diplomacy, climate justice and reform of the international financial system.
