Eugine Wabwile 
Kenya's President William Ruto makes remarks, during the swearing-in ceremony of his new Deputy President, Kithure Kindiki, at the Kenya International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi on November 1, 2024. Kindiki is an academic turned politician who was thrust into the limelight when he defended his boss President William Ruto at the International Criminal Court. The 52-year-old millionaire served as interior minister for more than two years before taking over as deputy president on November 1, 2024 following the historic impeachment of his predecessor, Rigathi Gachagua. (Photo by SIMON MAINA / AFP) (Photo by SIMON MAINA/AFP via Getty Images)
TANDAO MEDIA.
Kenyan President William Ruto has called for a substantial increase in the African Union (AU) Peace Fund, proposing a rise from KSh 52 billion to KSh 129 billion in a bid to strengthen the continent’s capacity to independently manage its peace and security agenda.
Speaking during the Second Session of the Summit of Heads of State and Government on the African Union Institutional Reform Agenda in Luanda, Angola,President Ruto presented a comprehensive report outlining key reforms aimed at enhancing the AU’s financial sustainability and operational effectiveness.“I had the honour to forward the report containing recommendations on AU Institutional Reform for Your Excellencies’ consideration,” Ruto told the assembly of African leaders.
The proposed reforms include broadening the base of financial contributions by engaging African financial institutions and the private sector. Ruto emphasized that a diversified and predictable funding model is essential to reduce the AU’s dependency on external donors and to build a credible, self-reliant peace and security architecture.“This move is about ensuring Africa can finance its own peace and security priorities with consistency and credibility,” he said.The AU Peace Fund, established to support conflict prevention, mediation, and peace support operations across the continent, has long faced challenges due to inconsistent funding.
Ruto’s proposal seeks to revitalize the fund and align it with the AU’s broader vision of self-determination and sustainable development.The summit in Luanda is part of ongoing efforts to implement institutional reforms within the AU, aimed at enhancing efficiency, accountability, and the continent’s ability to respond to emerging challenges.
