President William Ruto has urged African nations to leverage their political freedom to achieve economic independence through industrialisation and intra-African trade.

• President Ruto emphasized the need for Africa to convert its natural resources, markets, and young population into prosperity.
• The call was made at the inauguration of Zambia's President Hakainde Hichilema in Lusaka.
• The focus is on moving from exporting raw materials to manufacturing and adding value, enabling African businesses to compete globally through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area.