Mahamoud Ali Youssouf Takes the Helm at AUC

In a historic election, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, a seasoned diplomat and statesman from Djibouti, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). The election, which took place on February 15, 2025, marked a significant turning point in the journey towards a stronger, more united Africa.

The League of African Ambassadors was among the first to congratulate Youssouf on his election, praising his impressive track record of service to the African continent. In a statement signed by Iduma Chris Mayor, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President, League of African Ambassadors, the League extolled Youssouf’s pedigrees, saying:

“Your impressive track record of service to the African continent, including your tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Djibouti, has earned you a reputation as a champion of African unity and cooperation… We believe that your leadership will be a catalyst for renewed commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism, which emphasizes the unity, solidarity, and collective self-reliance of African peoples.”

Youssouf’s election was the culmination of a rigorous selection process, which saw him emerge as the winner after seven rounds of voting. His victory was met with widespread acclaim, with many African leaders and organizations praising his vision, experience, and commitment to African unity and development.

As the new Chairperson of the AUC, Youssouf will be responsible for leading the organization’s efforts to promote peace, security, and stability in Africa, as well as accelerating continental integration and empowering African citizens. His leadership will be critical in shaping the African Union’s agenda and policies, and in promoting the organization’s values of unity, solidarity, and cooperation.

Youssouf’s background and experience make him uniquely qualified for the role. A seasoned diplomat with over two decades of experience, he has served as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as well as the country’s Ambassador to several countries, including Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda.

Throughout his career, Youssouf has been a strong advocate for African unity and cooperation, and has played a key role in promoting regional integration and conflict resolution in the Horn of Africa. His experience and expertise will be invaluable in shaping the African Union’s policies and programs, and in promoting the organization’s values and principles.

The League of African Ambassadors’ congratulatory message to Youssouf highlighted his commitment to African unity and cooperation, saying:

“We urge you to remain steadfast in your commitment to the African Union’s founding principles, including the promotion of peace, security, and stability, the acceleration of continental integration, and the empowerment of African citizens… We pledge to work closely with you to mobilize African ambassadors and diplomats in promoting the African Union’s objectives, fostering greater cooperation and collaboration among African nations, and showcasing Africa’s rich cultural heritage and diversity.”

Youssouf’s election as the new Chairperson of the AUC marks a new chapter in the organization’s history, and presents an opportunity for renewed commitment to African unity and cooperation. As the African Union continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs and challenges of the continent, Youssouf’s leadership will be critical in shaping the organization’s agenda and policies, and in promoting the values and principles of the African Union.