Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission. The announcement came at the conclusion of the AU’s 38th Ordinary Session held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 15, 2025, where Youssouf clinched the position after several rounds of voting, marking a new era for the continent’s premier political institution.
Youssouf, who has been Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister since 2005, secured victory with 33 votes in the final round, defeating strong contenders like Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Madagascar’s former Foreign Affairs Minister Richard Randriamandrato. His election signifies a commitment to strengthening AU’s role in peace, security, and economic integration across the continent.
During his acceptance speech, Youssouf emphasized his vision for Africa, pledging to focus on enhancing peace and security, boosting intra-African trade, and ensuring stable financing for the Union. “The unity and progress of our continent depend on our collective resolve to address our shared challenges. We must strengthen our institutions, promote dialogue, and uphold the principles of good governance for the benefit of all Africans,” he declared.
Youssouf’s background as a seasoned diplomat, having served in numerous capacities including as Djibouti’s ambassador to countries like Egypt, Kenya, and Uganda, is seen as a strong foundation for his new role. His tenure in foreign affairs has been marked by efforts to mediate regional conflicts and foster diplomacy in the Horn of Africa, which many believe will be invaluable in addressing the AU’s complex agenda.
This election is happening at a time when the African Union faces numerous challenges, including ongoing conflicts in regions like the Sahel and the Great Lakes, political instability in some member states, and the need to accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Youssouf’s priorities include operationalizing the African Standby Force, strengthening the AU’s Peace and Security Council, and promoting the free movement of goods and people across the continent.
The election has stirred discussions across Africa, with posts on social media platforms, celebrating Djibouti’s diplomatic victory and expressing hopes for Youssouf’s leadership. His election has been viewed as an opportunity for smaller nations to assert influence within the AU, traditionally dominated by larger countries.
Reacting to the news, the IGAD Executive Secretary congratulated Youssouf, reaffirming the regional body’s commitment to work closely with the AU under his leadership. “H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf’s election is a resounding affirmation of the trust and confidence placed in him by African Heads of State and Government,” the statement read.
Critics and observers, however, caution that the success of Youssouf’s tenure will hinge on his ability to navigate the diverse interests of AU member states, manage the bureaucratic challenges within the AU, and effectively implement reforms to make the Union more responsive and impactful.
Youssouf will succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, who completed two terms leading the AU Commission. The new chairperson will serve for a four-year term, with the possibility of renewal once. As he steps into this pivotal role, Africa looks forward to a period of enhanced cooperation, stability, and economic growth under his stewardship.
