Ruto to table Africa reform and trade agenda at Addis AU summit
By Kiprono Keileb, February 13, 2026President William Ruto is expected to outline Kenya’s priorities on reform, climate action and trade as he heads to a major continental meeting bringing together African leaders and policymakers.
The update was issued on Friday, February 13, 2026, through a statement from the State House detailing the President’s travel and agenda ahead of the high-level African Union gathering in Ethiopia.
The statement described the president’s departure plans and the broader continental context shaping the summit’s discussions among African leaders.
“President William Ruto departs this afternoon for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to participate in the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly, convened amid global uncertainty and economic shifts, where leaders will set continental priorities and advance Agenda 2063,” the statement reads.
The statement explained the role he is expected to play on institutional reforms and climate discussions within the African Union structures.
“As AU Champion for Institutional Reform, President Ruto will present a progress report on strengthening the Union’s effectiveness, credibility, and financial sustainability,” the statement reads.
The communication further outlined his leadership responsibilities on climate matters and the importance of presenting a common African position.
“He will also chair the Committee of the African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC) and table its report, reinforcing Africa’s common position on climate action, adaptation, resilience, and climate finance,” the statement reads.
The statement also highlighted trade and economic cooperation, pointing to Kenya’s push for stronger regional integration through continental trade frameworks.
“The President will further chair the inaugural African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Committee meeting, underscoring Kenya’s commitment to deeper regional integration and expanded intra-African trade,” the statement reads.
The statement also described planned diplomatic engagements on the sidelines of the summit aimed at strengthening Kenya’s economic and development partnerships.
“On the margins of the Summit, President Ruto will hold bilateral engagements to advance partnerships in trade, investment, health, and security, and mobilise support for Kenya’s national transformation agenda, spanning infrastructure, agro-industrial development supported by expanded irrigation, and energy security,” the statement reads.