Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf Elected as African Union Commission Chairperson – ImNews Political Desk, Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – On February 15, 2025, during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly in Addis Ababa, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf was elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005, will succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, commencing his four-year term in March 2025.

The election process was highly competitive, with Youssouf emerging victorious after seven rounds of voting. He surpassed notable candidates, including Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya, and Richard Randriamandrato, ex-Foreign Minister of Madagascar.

Born on September 2, 1965, Youssouf has been a pivotal figure in Djibouti’s diplomatic landscape. He pursued higher education in business management at the University of Liverpool in 1988 and obtained a master’s degree in management from the University of Laval in 1990. His extensive career includes serving as Djibouti’s Ambassador to Egypt from 1997 to 2001 before his long tenure as Foreign Minister.

In his vision statement submitted during his candidacy, Youssouf emphasized the importance of enhancing peace and security across the continent. He advocates for African-led solutions to conflicts and stresses the need for the African Standby Force to be adequately funded and operational. Additionally, Youssouf has been a vocal proponent for Africa securing permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council, reflecting the continent’s growing influence in global affairs.

Youssouf’s election comes at a critical time for the African Union, as the organization faces challenges such as political instability in parts of West Africa and ongoing conflicts in regions like the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Member states and international observers express optimism that his extensive diplomatic experience will guide the AU towards effective solutions and bolster continental unity.