In a significant development during the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has been 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, who has held the position since 2017. 

The election saw Youssouf competing against notable figures such as Raila Odinga, a former prime minister of Kenya, and Richard Randriamandrato, an ex-foreign minister of Madagascar. Despite trailing in the initial rounds, Youssouf secured victory in the seventh round with 33 votes, surpassing the required majority. 

Youssouf’s extensive diplomatic career includes his tenure as Djibouti’s ambassador to Egypt prior to his long-standing role as foreign minister. His election comes at a time when the African Union faces numerous challenges, including military juntas in West Africa and ongoing conflicts in regions like eastern Congo. As the new AUC Chairperson, Youssouf is expected to address these pressing issues and spearhead initiatives aligned with the AU’s Agenda 2063, aiming for a peaceful and prosperous Africa. 

The election process underscored the AU’s commitment to democratic principles and regional representation. Youssouf’s victory is anticipated to bring a renewed focus on unity and sustainable development across the continent, as member states collaborate to achieve “The Africa We Want.”