On February 15, 2025, during the 38th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, was elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). Youssouf secured the position after seven rounds of voting, obtaining 33 votes from the AU member states. He is set to be sworn in in March 2025, succeeding the incumbent Chairperson, Moussa Faki.

The election saw Youssouf competing against notable figures, including Kenya’s former Prime Minister, Raila Odinga, and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato. Despite significant support and an extensive campaign, Odinga was unable to secure the necessary votes. Prior to the election, Odinga had expressed confidence in his bid and had garnered endorsements from various African leaders.

Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, born on September 2, 1965, has been serving as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs since 2005. His extensive diplomatic experience and long-standing service in international relations were pivotal in his successful campaign for the AUC Chairperson role.

The election process required a candidate to secure a two-thirds majority from the 55 AU member states. The protracted voting process, extending to seven rounds, underscores the competitive nature of this year’s election and the diverse interests represented within the Union.

As the incoming Chairperson, Youssouf is expected to lead the AU Commission in addressing pressing continental issues, including economic development, peace and security, and the implementation of the AU’s Agenda 2063.