In a significant political development, Djibouti’s Mahamoud Ali Youssouf has been elected as the new African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson. The election took place on February 15, 2025, during the 36th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly in Addis Ababa.

Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005, secured 33 votes in the seventh round, surpassing the required majority. The election process was intense, with candidates being eliminated through successive rounds. Raila Odinga (Kenya), Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar), Anil Gayan (Mauritius), and Fawzia Yusuf Adam (Somalia) were among the contenders, but as rounds progressed, Youssouf emerged as the frontrunner.

Set to take office in March 2025, Youssouf brings extensive diplomatic experience to the role. As Djibouti’s top diplomat, he has played a pivotal role in fostering regional cooperation and strengthening international relations.

As AUC Chairperson, Youssouf will face pressing challenges, including enhancing economic integration, addressing regional conflicts, and bolstering the AU’s global influence. A top priority will be silencing the guns in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Sudan while also tackling hunger in the Horn of Africa.

The African Union has welcomed Youssouf’s election, expressing confidence in his leadership. The international community has also extended congratulations, recognizing his potential to steer the continent toward greater unity and development.

Despite strong endorsements from nations such as Algeria, Angola, Botswana, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Raila Odinga ultimately fell short of victory. Youssouf’s win signals a new chapter for the AU as it navigates the complexities of Africa’s political and economic landscape.