Africa is Power
Kenyan President President William Ruto has once again put Africa at the center of global conversation. In a powerful speech delivered at the United Nations
General Assembly two days ago, he called for Africa to be granted two permanent seats with veto power on the UN Security Council, alongside two additional non-permanent seats, marking a bold and historic demand for fairness in global governance. Ruto said UN reforms are “not a favour for Africa, but a necessity for the organisation’s own survival.
The President reminded world leaders that Africa is not a passive observer in international affairs. With 54 sovereign nations and a population of over 1.4 billion people, Africa is central to peacekeeping, economic growth, climate action, and cultural diversity. Yet, as Ruto emphasized, it remains the only continent without a permanent seat on the world’s top decision-making body.
“The Security Council reflects the politics of 1945, not the realities of 2025,” he declared, arguing that continued exclusion of Africa not only undermines the continent but also weakens the UN’s credibility and moral authority. He urged member states to recognize that reform is not an act of charity but a matter of justice, equity, and the survival of the United Nations itself.
Ambassador Kananathan said, as I witnessed to these words, I could not help but feel the weight of history. This was not just another speech—it was a rallying cry that demanded the world rethink its assumptions about Africa. President Ruto spoke not only for Kenya but for the entire continent.
Ruto’s words echoed the long-standing African Union position under the Ezulwini Consensus, which has consistently called for two permanent seats for Africa. But his delivery—clear, uncompromising, and urgent—gave the issue fresh momentum.
In my view, Kananathan said this moment will be remembered as one where Africa stood tall and unapologetic. The President’s insistence that Africa’s voice is essential for global legitimacy resonated strongly with all who believe in equality among nations.Ruto framed Africa not as a bystander, but as a power whose representation is vital for a just and functioning international system.
From my perspective, his courage in confronting global inequality deserves commendation. Too often, African leaders’ voices are diluted on the world stage, but here was a moment of clarity and conviction that cannot be ignored , ambassador Kananathan stated .
The road ahead will require unity among African nations and strategic diplomacy with other blocs to turn this demand into reality. But one thing is clear: President Ruto’s UNGA speech has redefined the debate on global governance reform.
Africa’s voice can no longer be ignored. Kananathan said Kenyan President Ruto”s words and vision, the world was reminded of a simple truth: Africa is Power.
President Ruto’s bold call for justice at the UNGA is not only a defining moment for Africa, but also a lesson for smaller nations like Sri Lanka. Our island , though modest in size, is strategically located at the heart of the Indian Ocean, giving Sri Lanka a unique role in global trade and maritime security.
Africa’s unity in demanding its rightful voice on the world stage is an inspiring example. In the same spirit, Sri Lanka can draw from its proud legacy—from leadership in the Non-Aligned Movement to fostering cooperation in SAARC and BIMSTEC—to continue serving as a bridge in international affairs and a champion for fairness and inclusivity in global governance.
