African leaders on Saturday elected Djibouti’s foreign minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, as the new chairperson of the African Union Commission.
Youssouf defeated former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga and former Malagasy Foreign Minister Richard Randriamandrato in the election.
The AU Commission plays a crucial role in promoting peace and security, economic development, and human rights across the African continent.
However, the AU faces numerous challenges, including the rise of military coups in West Africa, the ongoing conflicts in various parts of the continent, and the need to address the continent’s economic and social development challenges.
The new chairperson will need to navigate these complex challenges and effectively address the pressing needs of the African continent.
This includes strengthening the AU’s capacity to prevent and resolve conflicts, promoting sustainable development, and addressing human rights concerns.
The election of Youssouf comes as the African continent faces a number of critical challenges, including the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, the humanitarian crisis in Sudan, and the growing threat of climate change.
The new chairperson will need to work closely with member states, regional organizations, and international partners to address these challenges and build a more peaceful, prosperous, and equitable future for Africa.”