President William Ruto has made a compelling appeal for sweeping reforms to the global multilateral framework, describing it as outdated and no longer fit for purpose. Speaking at Peking University in Beijing during an official visit to China, Ruto emphasized the urgent need for restructuring global institutions and trade systems to reflect contemporary challenges and the realities of a changing world.
Lauding Peking University as a “global citadel of intellectual vibrancy,” Ruto praised its long-standing role in China–Africa educational ties, noting that the institution has educated over 4,000 African students since 1956. He highlighted the strengthening collaboration between Kenya and China in education, technology, and innovation, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and the creative economy.
Ruto spotlighted Kenya’s tech hub, Konza Technopolis dubbed the “Silicon Savannah” as a key driver of the country’s digital future, and pointed to Kenya’s upcoming National AI Strategy as a springboard for further cooperation with China.
Shifting to global issues, Ruto criticized the post-World War II multilateral order for being “broken and dysfunctional.” He called for a restructured United Nations Security Council with equitable representation, criticizing the current permanent members for perpetuating global conflict rather than promoting peace.
The President also targeted the Bretton Woods institutions, arguing they function as shareholder clubs rather than independent global bodies. He advocated for transforming these into apolitical institutions that truly serve all nations.
On climate change, Ruto highlighted Africa’s disproportionate vulnerability, stressing the need for global carbon taxation and commending China’s contribution to affordable renewable energy solutions.
Ruto challenged the traditional lens of global trade, arguing that multinational supply chains now obscure the true nature of trade flows. He urged a shift in thinking and investment to match Africa’s rising demographic weight, noting that by 2050, the continent will comprise a quarter of the global workforce.
Reaffirming Kenya’s non-aligned stance in foreign policy, Ruto concluded by calling for deeper academic and technological partnerships with China. “Kenya and China are not merely trade partners,” he said, “we are co-architects of a new world order.”
