Kenya’s President, William Ruto, has declared that the African Union (AU) is no longer effective in fulfilling its mandate, insisting that the continental body urgently requires deep structural reforms to remain relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Ruto made the assertion on Saturday while addressing intelligence chiefs from across Africa at the Mashariki Cooperation Conference held in Mombasa, Kenya.

The Kenyan leader, who is currently spearheading AU reform efforts on behalf of fellow heads of state, said African leaders had mandated him to drive a comprehensive review of the union’s institutions and operations.

According to him, the AU in its present form is incapable of providing the leadership Africa needs to unlock its potential and respond to emerging global challenges.

“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. Therefore, there is need for reform of the African Union.”

Ruto stressed that Africa, with its fast-growing population and expanding market opportunities, stands at a critical crossroads that demands stronger institutional coordination and visionary leadership.

He further urged security and intelligence chiefs across the continent to contribute ideas that would help reshape the AU into a more effective and responsive body.

“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 added.

The Kenyan president warned that failure to properly harness Africa’s demographic and economic advantages could pose long-term risks to stability and development across the continent.

The call adds to growing continental debates over governance reforms, institutional efficiency, and Africa’s role in the evolving global order.