Faith Nyasuguta
Kenya’s President William Ruto has called upon the European Union (EU) to back the country’s initiative to send police officers to Haiti.
During his address to the EU Parliament, President Ruto emphasized the importance of partnerships with African nations for the continent’s growth and development.
He expressed that European support would lend legitimacy to the mission, which is based on a UN resolution and the Multinational Security Support Mission.
Kenya is among eight countries willing to contribute troops to address the security challenges posed by armed gangs in Haiti.
However, the deployment has faced resistance in Kenya, despite approval from the National Assembly. President Ruto highlighted that the mission in Haiti would require around 5,000 personnel to tackle the security issues, emphasizing the need for EU support to provide resources and legitimacy.
President Ruto also urged the EU to support Africa’s pursuit of unlocking its economic potential. He emphasized that a reciprocal relationship between Europe and Africa, based on shared objectives and cooperative efforts, could drive transformative results for both continents.
Stressing the importance of long-term peace and stability, he connected it with building sustainable economic foundations, stating that Africa is working towards green industrialization and prosperity.
Addressing the international financial architecture, President Ruto urged the EU to support Africa’s reforms. While acknowledging some progress, he expressed frustration with the slow implementation of the review of Multilateral Development Banks’ capital adequacy framework.
He called for acceleration and expansion of measures, including collaboration with France on a tax working group at the upcoming COP meeting. President Ruto highlighted the financial constraints faced by African economies, emphasizing the need for adequate capitalization of multilateral development banks.
In the context of Africa’s climate agenda, President Ruto urged the EU to align its concessional and multilateral capital. He emphasized the importance of phasing down climate incompatible funding and increasing concessional finance to lower risks.
President Ruto invited the European Investment Bank to play a more significant role in Kenya and across the continent, leveraging its expertise and resources.
President Ruto concluded by inviting European companies, institutions, and organizations to explore opportunities in Africa. He urged collaboration to develop solutions that leverage strengths, drive innovation, and contribute to global progress.
The president emphasized the positive impact of previous joint efforts in creating jobs and improving livelihoods across the continent, extending a warm invitation for further collaboration.
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