Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has emerged as the new Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission following a highly competitive election at the 38th Ordinary Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 15, 2025. The race, which spanned seven intense rounds of voting, saw Youssouf secure victory after a prolonged and strategic contest that tested the diplomatic strength of all contenders.
The election was fiercely contested, with Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga appearing dominant in the early stages. In the first round, Odinga led the vote count with 20 votes, followed closely by Youssouf with 18, while Madagascar’s candidate, Richard Randriamandrato, trailed with 10 votes. The second round saw a dramatic shift as Youssouf gained momentum, securing 25 votes while Odinga followed with 21, with two countries abstaining. The third round proved decisive as Odinga was eliminated, having garnered 21 votes, while Youssouf advanced with 26. In the final round, Youssouf clinched the chairmanship with 33 votes, surpassing the required majority and marking a significant diplomatic victory for Djibouti.
Youssouf’s election represents a new era of leadership for the AU Commission, with expectations high for his ability to steer the organization toward greater unity, economic progress, and strategic influence on the global stage. His victory also underscores Djibouti’s growing prominence in African diplomacy, further strengthening the country’s position in continental affairs.
During his campaign, Youssouf emphasized the need for a progressive and inclusive AU, outlining his priorities, which include youth employment, engagement with the African diaspora, and fostering strong leadership to advance the AU’s core mission. His vision for the AU Commission revolves around governance reforms, transparency, and strengthening the institution’s operational efficiency.
“I will advocate for a collaborative and inclusive approach, celebrating diversity, merit, and skills. Promoting a culture of accountability and transparency will be essential. I will ensure compliance with financial and regulatory rules, along with rigorous accountability for our activities. Effective and accountable governance is key to strengthening our institutional foundations,” Youssouf stated in his victory speech.
With more than three decades of experience in diplomacy and governance, Youssouf is well-equipped to handle the challenges that come with leading Africa’s foremost continental body. He previously played a key role in restructuring Djibouti’s Foreign Ministry, where he established critical directorates focused on communication, legal affairs, and diaspora engagement. His leadership in diplomatic circles has earned him respect across the continent, positioning him as a capable statesman to navigate the complexities of AU affairs.
The outcome of the election was met with mixed reactions across Africa, as many had expected Odinga, given his strong political background and continental appeal, to clinch the chairmanship. However, Youssouf’s ability to consolidate support in the later rounds of voting ultimately secured his victory. Analysts suggest that his strategic approach in engaging AU member states and his diplomatic track record played a crucial role in tilting the election in his favor.
Kenyan President William Ruto, despite his country’s disappointment in the final result, extended his congratulations to Youssouf, affirming Kenya’s commitment to supporting the new AU Commission leadership. In a Facebook post on February 15, Ruto emphasized that the election was not merely about individuals or national interests but about the future of Africa as a whole.
“You have the trust of the AU Assembly, and Kenya pledges her full support to you as you steer the African Union Commission to the next level. This election was not about individuals or nations; it was about Africa’s future,” Ruto wrote.
He also took the opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of Raila Odinga and expressed his gratitude to the AU Assembly for considering the former Prime Minister’s vision and priorities for the continent.
“While the outcome of this election did not favor Kenya’s candidate, I wish to convey my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of our great continent. Thank you for considering the Right Honourable Raila Odinga’s vision and priorities for the African Union and for according him the opportunity to share his passion for the continent’s transformation,” Ruto stated.
Youssouf now assumes leadership at a time when the AU faces pressing challenges, including economic integration, security threats, climate change adaptation, and strengthening Africa’s role in global diplomacy. His administration is expected to build on the AU’s Agenda 2063, which envisions a prosperous, united, and self-reliant Africa. The chairmanship also comes with the responsibility of enhancing the AU’s efficiency, streamlining decision-making processes, and addressing institutional bottlenecks that have often hindered swift policy implementation.
As he takes office, Youssouf is expected to engage with various stakeholders, including African heads of state, regional economic blocs, and international partners, to drive the AU’s strategic objectives forward. His diplomatic experience will be instrumental in fostering stronger cooperation between African nations and ensuring that the AU remains a unifying force in addressing continental issues.
The African Union Commission serves as the executive arm of the AU, responsible for implementing policies, coordinating member states, and driving initiatives aimed at achieving Africa’s developmental goals. The Chairperson plays a crucial role in providing leadership and direction, ensuring that the AU remains effective in responding to the evolving needs of the continent.
Observers believe that Youssouf’s leadership style, which blends pragmatism with a results-oriented approach, will be crucial in strengthening the Commission’s governance structures. His previous work in Djibouti’s foreign affairs sector demonstrated his ability to navigate complex diplomatic landscapes, a skill that will be essential in handling the AU’s diverse political and economic challenges.
The election process itself highlighted the growing political dynamics within the AU, with intense lobbying and coalition-building among member states. The multiple rounds of voting reflected the high stakes involved in selecting a leader capable of managing the AU’s broad and multifaceted agenda. Youssouf’s ability to sustain momentum throughout the voting process demonstrated his strong diplomatic networks and his capacity to unite different regional interests.
As the new Chairperson, Youssouf’s immediate priorities will likely include reinforcing the AU’s financial sustainability, addressing peace and security concerns in conflict-prone regions, and pushing for greater economic integration through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Strengthening Africa’s voice in global governance institutions such as the United Nations and the G20 is also expected to be high on his agenda.
His leadership will be closely monitored, as African citizens and policymakers look to the AU Commission for decisive action on key issues affecting the continent. With growing calls for institutional reforms and enhanced efficiency, Youssouf’s tenure will be a defining period for the AU’s role in shaping Africa’s future.
As he assumes office, expectations are high that Youssouf will usher in a new era of leadership, one that prioritizes Africa’s development, fosters unity among member states, and positions the continent as a formidable player on the global stage. His victory in Addis Ababa marks the beginning of a new chapter for the African Union, with hopes that his tenure will bring meaningful progress and transformative change for the continent.
