By Abdishakur Ali
Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Djibouti’s long-serving Foreign Minister, was elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) on February 15, 2025, during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of African Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He will serve a four-year term, succeeding Moussa Faki of Chad, who has held the position since 2017. His victory came after an intense seven-round secret ballot, defeating Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Madagascar’s former Foreign Minister Richard Randriamandrato.
Youssouf’s election represents a significant shift in the AU’s leadership at a time when Africa grapples with critical challenges, including escalating conflicts in eastern Congo, political instability in West Africa, and the pursuit of economic integration under the Agenda 2063 framework. As he steps into the role, the continent’s attention turns to his vision for Africa’s future.
A Diplomatic Heavyweight
Born on September 2, 1965, in Djibouti City, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf is a seasoned diplomat with over three decades of experience in international relations. Youssouf began his diplomatic career in Djibouti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, leading the Arab Affairs Department in the 1990s. He went on to serve as Djibouti’s Ambassador to Egypt from 1997 to 2001 and subsequently became Minister-Delegate for International Cooperation. In 2005, he was appointed Foreign Minister, a role he has held for 20 years, making him Africa’s longest-serving foreign minister. Throughout his career, Youssouf has played a significant role in shaping Djibouti’s foreign policy, particularly in navigating the Horn of Africa’s complex geopolitical landscape. He chaired the Arab League Council of Foreign Ministers in 2008 and has consistently advocated for Africa’s strategic importance in global affairs.
A Hard-Fought Victory
Youssouf’s path to the AUC chair was not easy. The election witnessed a fierce contest, especially with Raila Odinga, who led in the initial rounds. However, Youssouf’s diplomatic charm and strategic coalition-building saw him secure the required 33 votes in the final round. His success highlighted Djibouti’s growing diplomatic influence despite its small size. Kenyan President William Ruto, who supported Odinga, gracefully accepted the result, stating, “This election was about Africa’s future, not individual nations. We will continue working together for a united and prosperous continent.” Madagascar’s candidate Randriamandrato also congratulated Youssouf, acknowledging the democratic spirit of the process.
A Continent in Crisis
As Youssouf takes the helm, he inherits a continent plagued by security challenges. The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains unresolved, with M23 rebels making territorial gains and increasing tensions with Rwanda. The AU’s response to these crises has been criticized for lacking effectiveness and consistency. Youssouf’s leadership will be scrutinized as he seeks to revitalize the AU’s peace and security apparatus. He has already signaled his intent to prioritize conflict resolution, enhance the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA), and strengthen partnerships with international stakeholders.
Economic Transformation: Unlocking Africa’s Potential
Economic development is another key focus for Youssouf. Africa is endowed with vast natural resources, including 30% of the world’s mineral reserves, 12% of its oil reserves, and 8% of its natural gas. The continent also possesses 40% of the world’s gold and 90% of its platinum and chromium reserves. Despite these riches, Africa remains economically vulnerable due to mismanagement, limited industrialization, and dependency on external aid. Youssouf has expressed a commitment to changing this narrative. He plans to accelerate the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-African trade and reduce reliance on foreign markets. As AUC chair, he pledged to attract investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and digital technology to stimulate growth and create jobs for Africa’s youthful population.
Strengthening Institutional Foundations
One of the most pressing issues facing the AU is its financial dependence on external donors. Currently, foreign contributions account for approximately 75% of the AU’s budget, raising concerns about the organization’s autonomy and long-term sustainability. Youssouf has pledged to implement reforms that encourage member states to fulfill their financial obligations. “Africa must take ownership of its developmental agenda. Our independence and credibility depend on our ability to finance our own programs,” Youssouf stated during his campaign.
Bridging Linguistic and Regional Divides
Africa’s linguistic and regional diversity often complicates continental unity. The AU comprises 55 member states with varying historical, linguistic, and political contexts. Youssouf’s multilingual abilities—fluent in French, Arabic, and English—are seen as an asset in bridging communication gaps across the continent. Moreover, he will need to address overlapping and, at times, conflicting mandates of regional economic communities (RECs). Streamlining their operations and fostering better coordination will be critical for implementing the AU’s strategic plans.
Global Diplomacy and Africa’s Place in the World
Youssouf’s foreign policy expertise will be instrumental in navigating Africa’s position in an evolving global landscape. With geopolitical shifts, including potential changes in U.S. foreign policy and growing tensions between major powers, Africa must assert its voice on issues like climate change, trade, and global governance reforms. He has vowed to advocate for Africa’s fair representation in international institutions, particularly the UN Security Council, where the continent currently lacks permanent representation.
The Road Ahead
As Youssouf assumes office, he faces the dual challenge of addressing immediate crises while laying the foundation for long-term growth and unity. “Africa is at a crossroads,” Youssouf said after his election. “We must choose the path of unity, resilience, and self-reliance. Together, we can build an Africa that is not only prosperous but also influential in shaping the world’s future.”