President William Ruto has urged African leaders to unite in pressing for reforms of the United Nations Security Council, insisting that Africa’s exclusion from permanent membership is both “unacceptable and indefensible.”
Speaking at the 7th Summit of the Committee of 10 (C-10) Heads of State and Government on UN Security Council reforms in New York, Ruto emphasized the urgency of ending what he described as a “historic injustice.” He noted that while Africa shoulders a disproportionate share of the Council’s agenda and contributes significantly to peacekeeping missions, it remains the only continent without permanent representation.
“Yet we remain the only continent without permanent representation. This historic injustice must end. The time to act is now,” Ruto said.
Why is Africa demanding UN Security Council reforms?
The summit, convened by Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio during the 80th UN General Assembly, brought together African leaders including João Lourenço of Angola, Namibia’s Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. Their message was consistent: Africa must no longer accept marginalization in global decision-making.
President Maada reinforced this call, declaring, “The time for action is now. Our demand is legitimate, non-negotiable, and just.” He stressed that no reform can succeed without a united Africa.
Other leaders echoed the sentiment. President Lourenço reminded the UN that the organization was founded to create a fairer world, yet Africa still lacks a seat at the table. Youssouf added, “Africa will no longer wait on the margins of history.”
What responsibilities come with permanent membership?
Ruto acknowledged that securing a permanent seat comes with significant responsibilities, including agreeing on how representatives will be selected. He framed this as a chance for Africa to demonstrate maturity, unity, and vision in shaping global governance.
“This is a delicate and complex undertaking, but also an opportunity to show Africa’s maturity, cohesion, and vision for an effective international order,” he said.
Reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to the Common African Position, Ruto pledged to work closely with C-10 members, the African Union, and UN partners to ensure Africa’s voice is no longer deferred.
As Namibia’s Nandi-Ndaitwah summed up, those who support Africa’s inclusion will be “on the right side of history.”
By Lucky Anyanje