Youssouf is an inescapable face of African diplomacy. Since 2005, he has served as Minister of Foreign Affairs, making him one of the most experienced ministers on the continent. Hailing from one of Africa’s least populated countries, Djibouti, he embodies a pragmatic foreign policy, particularly due to his country’s strategic position at the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, at the crossroads of global maritime routes.
At 59, Youssouf is one of the few African diplomats to combine long tenure with influential positions on the international stage. Upon his election, his president, Ismail Omar Guelleh, hailed his victory as « a moment of pride for Djibouti and Africa, » emphasizing that « his leadership will serve Africa with dedication and vision.
Throughout his career, Youssouf has positioned himself as a key interlocutor in major African affairs. His engagement in peace and security processes, particularly in East Africa and the Horn of Africa, has marked his tenure in Djibouti. During his TV debate in December 2023, he highlighted several priorities for the African Union, including the need to strengthen the AU Peace and Security Council, operationalize the African Standby Force, and ensure stable funding for the Union.
« The place of Africa on the international stage will be one of my priorities. The Africa we want is one of peace, integration, and prosperity. If I am given the chance to be Chairperson of the Commission, I will do my best to ensure our continent shines on the international stage, » he stated during the election campaign.
One of his priorities, as he expressed, is to « silence the guns » across the continent. «Silencing the guns, meaning preventing conflicts, resolving wars, and internal crises… this is one of the priorities, » he stressed, underlining the need to focus the AU’s efforts on this critical agenda. The challenge is immense, with devastating conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan requiring immediate and concerted intervention.
Youssouf’s mandate will begin in a challenging context, marked by ongoing crises, particularly in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
« The continent is currently facing many difficulties, » Youssouf stated in December, referring to the political instability in some African countries, especially those shaken by recent coups. Governance, which he considers a major issue, will be at the heart of his actions. He has already spoken about the importance of reforming the AU to make it a more effective and result-oriented organization. « If we have good staff at the commission, it will be much easier for all of us to implement the reforms that have already been adopted by our leaders, » he explained.
Mahamoud Ali Youssouf succeeds Moussa Faki Mahamat, who led the AU for two terms from 2017 to 2025. The latter left behind a complex legacy, marked by multiple diplomatic challenges and internal crises within the AU. Youssouf’s challenge will be to continue the reforms undertaken and ensure the organization’s stability amid global geopolitical turbulence.
Youssouf’s election, after several rounds of voting against Raila Odinga and Richard Randriamandrato, is seen as a recognition of his work and commitment on the international stage. Despite his discretion and moderate diplomatic approach, he has distinguished himself by his ability to bring people together and build alliances.
Mahamoud Ali Youssouf takes the helm of the African Union Commission at a crucial moment in the organization’s history. Confronted with governance crises, persistent conflicts, and economic challenges, his mission will be to guide the AU toward greater stability, strengthen its role in conflict resolution, and open new perspectives for the continent’s economic and political integration. Africa expects from him an ambitious vision and decisive action.