Ruto: Africa must turn political freedom into economic freedom
Ruto said Africa's next historic task was to convert its natural resources, markets and young population into broad-based prosperity.
President William Ruto has urged African nations to shift from securing political freedom to achieving economic independence. Speaking at the inauguration of Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, Ruto emphasized that Africa's next historic task is to convert its natural resources, markets, and youthful population into prosperity.
He contrasted the previous generation's fight against colonialism and apartheid with today's challenge of transforming that political freedom into tangible economic benefits. Ruto highlighted Africa's abundant resources, such as land, energy, minerals, and a youthful population, stating that the real challenge is how to utilize these assets to create jobs, wealth, and value.
He called for increased industrialization, manufacturing, and intra-African trade to overcome fragmented markets and enable African businesses to compete globally. Ruto stressed that economic integration should not isolate Africa from the global economy, emphasizing that Africa must be a producer of value, not just a supplier of commodities.
He argued that political stability is crucial for economic transformation, linking democracy to the well-being of citizens. Ruto urged African leaders to focus on the aspirations of their people, such as jobs, incomes, education, healthcare, and opportunities for young people, ensuring that the continent's transformation benefits its citizens rather than forcing them to seek opportunities abroad.
Written by urgent.news from Capital FM Kenya's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
