President William Ruto is set to depart for the United States on Friday night to attend the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. This prominent event serves as a global platform where world leaders convene to address pressing international issues, with a particular focus on sustainable development, global governance, and climate action.
During the UNGA, President Ruto will advocate for comprehensive and accelerated reforms of multilateral institutions, including the United Nations, to ensure they remain relevant to today’s urgent challenges.
At the ‘Summit of the Future’ forum organized by the UN, he will call for a thorough review of the multilateral system, emphasizing its current inadequacies in tackling interconnected crises such as climate change, the debt burden, complex conflicts, and the erosion of democratic governance.
“My focus will be on ensuring that the proposed ‘Pact for the Future’ promotes a democratic, transparent, equitable, and responsive global order that addresses the specific needs of Kenya, Africa, and other developing nations,” President Ruto stated.
He will also participate in high-level discussions aimed at bridging the digital divide, promoting inclusion in the digital economy, and ensuring that emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data governance are managed equitably.
In addition to his engagements at UNGA, the President will hold a series of meetings with world leaders and international organizations to strengthen Kenya’s partnerships and explore opportunities for collaboration in trade, investment, and diplomacy. These discussions will focus on enhancing Kenya’s trade relations, advancing its leadership in climate action, and fostering strategic partnerships in renewable energy and digital innovation.
President Ruto will also meet with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to discuss Kenya’s role as host of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the ongoing capital project at the UN Office in Nairobi, and the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, where Kenya has taken a leadership role in promoting peace and security.
“UNGA 79 presents a crucial platform for Kenya and Africa to assert their positions on the global stage,” President Ruto noted. “For Kenya, this is an opportunity to advocate for equitable climate financing and garner international support for initiatives such as the Nairobi Declaration on the Africa Climate Summit, the African Green Industrialisation Initiative, and the African Renewable Energy Strategy.”
As a leading voice in Africa, President Ruto’s interventions will reflect the continent’s broader concerns, particularly in climate change, financial reforms, and technological governance. He will continue to push for greater African representation in global institutions, including the UN Security Council and the International Monetary Fund.
“My agenda is focused on ensuring that Africa’s interests are not only heard but acted upon, as we work towards shaping a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable world order,” he emphasized.
