African Union warns of Kenya 'genocide'

Africa is facing a genocide in Kenya and must make resolving the crisis a priority, the head of the African Union told the continent’s leaders today at the opening of a three-day summit.

“Kenya is a country that was a hope for the continent,” African Union chairman Alpha Konare said.

“Today, if you look at Kenya, you see violence on the streets. We are even talking about ethnic cleansing, We are even talking about genocide. We cannot sit with our hands folded.”

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki listened from the front row.

Mr Kibaki attended the summit despite calls from the opposition that he not be recognised as Kenya's official leader and suggestions by international diplomats that his time might be better served by staying at home to continue negotiations with opposition leader Raila Odinga following disputed election results.