By Enyichukwu Enemanna
President of Kenya, William Ruto has urged African leaders and Parliaments to commence the initiation and implementation of policies and legislations that will unlock Africa’s potential and create opportunities for its people.
The Kenyan leader have also asked leaders on the continent to champion a robust developmental agenda, saying Africa has the resources and opportunities necessary to drive a clean, just, and inclusive prosperity here and across the world.
He spoke on Friday during a joint session of the Congolese Parliament in Brazzaville, where he is in a two-day state visit.
He was received by President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo.
He challenged African leaders to speak with one voice, calling for collective climate action on a global scale.
“It is the right time to engage Africa’s leaders for the purpose of mobilising a firm African position on issues that are directly connected with our collective aspirations,” he said.
This, he explained, will include infrastructure development, elimination of visa and trade barriers in order to stimulate free trade.
The Head of State argued that the leaders must advocate for reforms in the multinational financial institutions to address the debt crisis in the continent.
President Ruto expressed regret that African countries have to choose between their development needs and climate action.
“It is, therefore, clear that if we do not solve the debt issue, it will be impossible to address the climate crisis.”
