Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf Elected As New Chairman of the African Union Commission
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – February 19, 2023: Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission. The 59-year-old diplomat emerged victorious at the AU Summit in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, after a competitive race against former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga and former Foreign Minister of Madagascar, Richard Randriamandrato.
Youssouf’s election marks a historic moment for Djibouti, a small East African nation that has played a significant role in regional and continental affairs. He will now lead the AU for a four-year term, succeeding Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, who has held the position since 2017.
The AU is a continental body consisting of 55 member states. The Chairperson of the Commission is the head of the AU Secretariat in Addis Ababa, which serves as the administrative and operational arm of the organization. The Chairperson is elected by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government.
Youssouf’s election comes at a critical juncture for the African continent, which is facing numerous challenges, including poverty, conflict, and climate change. As the top official of the AU, Youssouf will be tasked with spearheading the organization’s efforts to address these issues and promote peace, stability, and sustainable development across Africa.
Youssouf has a distinguished career in diplomacy, having served as Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2011. He is known for his strong advocacy for multilateralism and regional cooperation. Prior to his appointment as Foreign Minister, Youssouf held various positions within the Djiboutian government, including Director of the Horn of Africa Department and Ambassador to France.
In his acceptance speech, Youssouf outlined his vision for the AU, emphasizing the need for greater unity, solidarity, and economic integration among African nations. He pledged to work closely with member states to advance the continent’s development agenda and to promote peace and security.
"We must build an Africa that is prosperous, peaceful, and united," Youssouf said. "An Africa that is a global player, respected and influential in the world."
Youssouf’s election was met with widespread congratulations from African leaders and international organizations. Many expressed confidence in his ability to lead the AU and to address the challenges facing the continent.
"I have full confidence that under Chairman Youssouf’s leadership, the AU will continue to play a leading role in promoting peace, security, and development in Africa," said UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
The AU Summit, which began on February 18, is a high-level gathering of African leaders that takes place twice a year. This year’s summit is themed "Building a Resilient and Sustainable Africa in the Face of Global Challenges."
In addition to the election of the AU Commission Chairperson, the summit is expected to address a range of issues, including climate change, health, trade, and security.
