History has shown that Africa thrives when it controls its own narrative. For too long, the African Union’s (AU) has been dependent on external actors for security and economic aid. The recent AU leadership transition is a rare moment of optimism at a time when the continent still gets dismissed as a hub of perpetual crisis. Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, steps into his new role as Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) at this time.
Elected at the 38th Ordinary Summit of the African Union in Addis Ababa for a four-year term, Youssouf embodies the promise of a new generation of African leadership, one that seeks to break from historical inefficacies and drive the continent toward self-reliance and prosperity. Youssouf, 59, takes over from Chad’s Moussa Faki, who has led the Commission since 2017. Algeria’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the AU, Selma Malika Haddadi, was also elected Deputy Chairperson, succeeding Rwanda’s Dr Monique Nsanzabaganwa.
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Who is Mahmoud Ali Youssouf?
Born on 2 September 1965, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has played a crucial role in shaping Djibouti’s foreign policy for nearly two decades. He has served as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation since 2005, making him one of the longest-serving diplomats in the Horn of Africa. His tenure has been marked by a strong focus on regional peace, security, and diplomatic engagement.
His education took him to the United Kingdom, France, and Canada, where he honed his skills in management. He attended the University of Liverpool, earning a master’s degree in management in 1990. This international academic experience provided him with a solid foundation for navigating the complexities of international diplomacy.
Before assuming the role of Foreign Minister, Youssouf worked at Djibouti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, heading its Arab Affairs department during the 1990s. His early diplomatic roles were instrumental in shaping his leadership approach. In 1997, he was appointed ambassador to Egypt, a position he held until 2001, further expanding his diplomatic expertise.
Youssouf’s career has been marked by pivotal roles in international diplomacy. In 2001, he was appointed Minister-Delegate for International Cooperation and subsequently became Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation in 2005. In 2008, he chaired the 129th Ordinary Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Arab League, further cementing his influence in regional and global diplomacy.
In a 2008 interview, Youssouf expressed Djibouti’s ambition to develop its economy along similar lines to Dubai. He emphasised the country’s strategic location, arguing that its port held advantages even over Dubai’s, underscoring his vision for Djibouti’s future economic and geopolitical prominence.
His career spans several administrations in Djibouti, having worked under three different presidents—a testament to his political adaptability and the trust placed in him by the nation’s leadership. His tenure has been marked by a commitment to regional peace, stability, and economic growth. His diplomatic acumen has also made him a key player in broader African diplomacy, earning him respect among fellow African leaders.
A New Era for the African Union?
As he assumes leadership of the AUC, Youssouf inherits a continent facing pressing challenges, from security crises to economic instability. He has been vocal about the need for Africa to take charge of its own peace and security, emphasising that the AU must reduce its dependence on external funding for military operations.
“We have to be outspoken and frank. We make decisions at the Peace and Security Council level, but these resolutions are not implemented,” Youssouf said during a live debate before his election.
He has stressed the need to revamp the AU’s peacekeeping framework, ensuring that African-led solutions drive conflict resolution efforts across the continent. He is expected to bring this experience into his role at the AUC, where he will be tasked with addressing pressing continental issues such as regional conflicts, economic integration, and sustainable development.
A Vision for Africa’s Future
Youssouf’s leadership comes at a critical time for Africa’s economic and political landscape. His priorities include:
Strengthening Continental Security—He aims to mobilise AU standby forces more effectively and push for greater financial independence in peacekeeping missions.
Economic Integration and the AfCFTA—The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) remains a key agenda, and Youssouf is expected to push for deeper economic integration.
AU Institutional Reforms—Many critics argue that the AU needs structural reforms to be more effective. Youssouf has hinted at streamlining decision-making processes and reducing bureaucracy.
Climate Change and Sustainable Development—He has expressed concerns about Africa’s vulnerability to climate change and has pledged to prioritise sustainable development initiatives.
Despite his extensive diplomatic experience, Youssouf faces significant challenges. The AU has been criticised for its slow response to crises in Sudan, the Sahel, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, concerns over funding and member states’ commitment to AU policies remain persistent issues.
His ability to navigate these hurdles will define his legacy as AUC Chairperson. Will Mahmoud Ali Youssouf be the transformative leader Africa needs? Only time will tell.
