Talai Forum Commends Ruto’s UN Address on Africa
He said the address drew attention to the continent’s demand for a greater role in shaping decisions that affect global peace, development and economic relations.
The Talai Forum has commended President William Ruto for highlighting Africa’s concerns and calling for greater representation in global institutions during his UN General Assembly address.
By Robert Mutasi
The Talai Forum has commended President William Ruto for his address to the 81st United Nations General Assembly, saying he highlighted issues affecting Africa and called for greater representation of the continent in global institutions.
The forum, which represents the Talai community in Baringo, Nandi, Kericho, Bomet and Uasin Gishu counties, said Ruto’s speech reflected concerns about Africa’s position in international decision-making.
Ruto addressed the General Assembly in New York on September 23, 2026, where he called for reforms to the United Nations Security Council and greater African representation in the body. He also raised concerns about the international financial system and the cost of borrowing for developing countries.
Speaking on behalf of the Talai Forum, Chairman John Birech said the community followed the President’s address with pride and welcomed his focus on Africa’s interests.
“The Talai people watched with immense pride as our President stood before the community of nations and spoke with confidence and clarity about Africa’s aspirations and rightful place in the world,” Birech said.
He said the address drew attention to the continent’s demand for a greater role in shaping decisions that affect global peace, development and economic relations.
Ruto told the General Assembly that Africa has 54 member states but no permanent representation on the UN Security Council, despite accounting for more than a quarter of the Assembly’s membership. He argued that the current structure does not reflect the world as it exists today.
Birech said the message resonated with the Talai community, particularly the emphasis on Africa’s dignity, development and participation in international affairs.
“We were particularly encouraged by the President’s ability to place Africa’s concerns at the centre of a global conversation. His message carried the aspirations of millions of Africans who seek greater dignity, opportunity, equitable partnerships and a stronger voice in international affairs,” he said.
The Talai Forum chairman said Kenya had an important role to play in advancing discussions on Africa’s interests at international forums.
“For the Talai community, this was a moment of considerable pride. We believe Kenya has an important role to play in advancing Africa’s voice, interests and development agenda,” Birech said.
The forum also welcomed the President’s call for reforms to the international financial system. During his address, Ruto said developing countries face higher borrowing costs and argued that global financial institutions should be reformed to better reflect present economic realities.
Birech said the forum would continue supporting initiatives aimed at advancing Africa’s development and participation in international affairs.
The comments come as debate continues over reforms to global institutions, including the UN Security Council, with African countries seeking a permanent role in the body responsible for major decisions on international peace and security.
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