Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has been elected as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission during a summit in Addis Ababa on February 15, 2025. He succeeds Moussa Faki of Chad and takes on a significant leadership role amid numerous continental challenges. Selma Malika Haddadi was also elected as Deputy Chairperson, and Youssouf has stated his priorities will include financial management and internal funding mobilization.
At the 38th ordinary summit of continental leaders held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 15, 2025, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the Foreign Minister of Djibouti, was elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) for a four-year term. He succeeds Moussa Faki of Chad, who has held the position since 2017.
Selma Malika Haddadi, Algeria’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, was appointed as the Deputy Chairperson. The election process, which was competitive, saw Youssouf secure the necessary 33 votes in the seventh round, defeating Richard Randriamandrato from Madagascar and Raila Odinga of Kenya, both prominent candidates.
Youssouf’s election also followed the successful re-election of two Commissioners: Bankole Adeoye from Nigeria for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, and Amma Twum-Amoah from Ghana for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development. The election highlighted Youssouf’s diplomatic background, having previously served as Djibouti’s ambassador to Egypt before becoming Foreign Minister in 2005.
In anticipation of his role, Youssouf expressed his commitment to focusing on financial management and governance within the AUC. He aims to mobilize internal funds and reinforce Djibouti’s trusted role in fostering stability and security across the continent. The AUC currently faces numerous challenges, including political instability, violent extremism, and climate change.
Youssouf’s leadership comes at a crucial time as conflict persists in multiple nations, including Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, among others. Furthermore, several member states are currently under military governance, significantly complicating the AUC’s mandate.
With the AUC established in 2002 as a successor to the Organization of African Unity (OAU), Youssouf’s tenure begins amid pressing issues that demand urgent and effective leadership, showcasing the complexity of the challenges that he and his team will address soon.
In conclusion, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s election as Chairperson of the African Union Commission marks a significant leadership transition for the organization. As he steps into this role, he faces a multitude of challenges, including financial management, governance, and the promotion of stability across the continent. His experience and proactive approach will be essential in addressing the ongoing conflicts and instabilities that confront numerous African nations.
Original Source: gnnliberia.com
