Congratulations H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf – Newly Elected AU Chairperson

On February 15, 2025, H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf was elected as the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) following a highly contested seven-round voting process in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. His election represents a significant moment in Africa’s diplomatic and strategic trajectory, indicating a potential shift toward more assertive and cohesive continental leadership. With over three decades of diplomatic experience, including his tenure as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs since 2005, Youssouf brought extensive expertise to the AUC. His leadership is anticipated to address pressing continental challenges, including peace and security, economic integration, climate resilience, and institutional reform while navigating an increasingly complex global geopolitical landscape.

Born on September 2, 1965, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf developed a distinguished career characterized by academic rigor and diplomatic acumen. His educational background encompasses foreign languages, business management, and public administration, with studies at Lumière University Lyon 2, University of Liverpool, and Université Laval. This multidisciplinary foundation informed his pragmatic approach toward diplomacy and governance. Youssouf’s career trajectory includes serving as Djibouti’s Ambassador to Egypt (1997–2001) and subsequently as Minister-Delegate for International Cooperation (2001–2005), roles in which he refined his skills in multilateral engagement and regional diplomacy. As Minister of Foreign Affairs, he has been instrumental in positioning Djibouti as a center for international cooperation and a key player in regional stability, particularly in the Horn of Africa. His leadership has been characterized by a commitment to fostering dialogue, mediating conflicts, and advancing economic partnerships, establishing him as a respected figure both within Africa and globally.

As the newly appointed AU Chairperson, Youssouf is anticipated to prioritize several critical areas that align with the AU’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These priorities reflect the continent’s pressing challenges and opportunities.

1. Strengthening Peace and Security: Youssouf’s leadership will focus on enhancing conflict resolution mechanisms in regions affected by instability, such as the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, and the Great Lakes. This includes reinforcing AU peacekeeping missions and fostering deeper collaboration with international partners including the United Nations and regional economic communities. His experience in mediating regional conflicts is considered invaluable in addressing protracted crises and mitigating the escalation of violence.
2. Economic Integration and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): Accelerating the implementation of the AfCFTA will be a fundamental component of Youssouf’s agenda. By reducing trade barriers and fostering intra-African trade, the AfCFTA has the potential to facilitate significant economic growth. Youssouf also prioritizes enhancing investment opportunities, particularly in infrastructure and industrialization, to build economic resilience and reduce Africa’s dependence on commodity exports.
3. Climate Change and Sustainable Development: Africa remains disproportionately impacted by climate change, despite contributing minimally to global emissions. Youssouf is expected to advocate for climate action and resilience-building strategies, ensuring that African nations have the resources and support necessary to adapt to environmental challenges. His leadership will also emphasize the alignment of AU initiatives with global climate goals, including the Paris Agreement.
4. Institutional Reforms within the AU: To enhance the effectiveness of the AU, Youssouf prioritizes governance reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency. A key focus will be on strengthening the AU’s financial independence through innovative funding mechanisms, reducing reliance on external donors, and ensuring sustainable resource mobilization.
5. Advancing Africa’s Role in Global Diplomacy: Youssouf’s tenure seeks to elevate Africa’s voice in multilateral forums, particularly in global security, trade, and climate negotiations. This includes advocating for AU representation in the G20 and promoting reforms to the UN Security Council to reflect Africa’s growing influence. Strengthening ties with the African Diaspora and fostering partnerships with global institutions will also be central to his strategy.

Youssouf assumes leadership during a period of profound geopolitical shifts, characterized by intensifying global competition and regional instability. His foreign policy approach will necessitate balancing Africa’s strategic autonomy with the realities of engaging major global powers, including the United States, China, the European Union, and Russia. Key challenges include:

• Mediating African Conflicts: Youssouf will be tasked with strengthening AU-led mediation efforts in conflict zones, such as Ethiopia, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. His capacity to facilitate dialogue and foster consensus among conflicting parties is critical for achieving sustainable peace.
• Navigating the Global Competition for Africa’s Resources: As global powers compete for access to Africa’s critical minerals and natural resources, Youssouf will need to ensure that foreign investments are equitable and mutually beneficial, preventing exploitative engagements that may undermine Africa’s long-term development.
• Strengthening Africa’s Voice in Global Governance: Youssouf advocates for increased African representation in global decision-making bodies, including the G20 and the UN Security Council. This will involve constructing coalitions with other Global South nations to amplify Africa’s collective voices.
• Addressing External Military Presence in Africa: With several foreign powers maintaining military bases on the continent, Youssouf will need to engage these actors to ensure that Africa’s sovereignty and security interests are respected.

Youssouf’s leadership occurs at a critical juncture for Africa, as the continent addresses both internal challenges and external pressures. His diplomatic expertise, in conjunction with his commitment to regional stability and economic growth, positions him to effectively navigate these complexities. His pragmatic, solution-oriented approach is instrumental in advancing Africa’s collective interests and shaping its future trajectory.

As Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf possesses a unique opportunity to guide Africa toward greater unity, resilience, and prosperity. His tenure is anticipated to prioritize peace and security, economic integration, climate resilience, institutional reform, and robust foreign policy, ensuring that the AU remains at the forefront of Africa’s development agenda. The efficacy of his leadership will depend on the collaborative efforts of African leaders, the international community, and key stakeholders, who must align their support with his vision to realize Africa’s strategic objectives in an increasingly interconnected and competitive global environment.