The President termed Africa’s continued exclusion from permanent membership of the Security Council as outdated, warning that it undermines the UN’s credibility and even its survival.

He continued by saying, “The world must understand that reforming the Security Council is not a favor to Africa; it is a necessity for the UN’s own survival. If the UN is to remain relevant in this Century, it must reflect today’s realities, not the post-war power arrangements of 1945.”

President Ruto highlighted the irony that while African matters dominate much of the UN Security Council’s agenda, Africa is still the only continent denied a permanent seat.

He urged the creation of at least two permanent seats with full privileges, including veto power, along with additional non-permanent slots for African countries.

Citing the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti as a clear example, Ruto criticized the shortcomings of the UN system.

He noted that Kenya joined the mission on the understanding that it would be a joint effort with global powers, yet it has since struggled with underfunding and a shortage of personnel.

According to Ruto, only about 40 percent of the planned force is currently deployed in Port-au-Prince, where they continue to battle heavily armed gangs.

“Haiti became a reminder of what happens when the international community looks away. When Kenya responded, it was because we believed we were joining a multinational effort,” Ruto went on. 

The President stressed that as the UN marks its 80th anniversary, the institution must undergo comprehensive reforms to restore its full effectiveness.

Alongside his tough critique of the UN, Ruto was also honored on the sidelines of the General Assembly by UN-Habitat, which named him a Global Champion for adequate housing for all in recognition of his Affordable Housing initiative.