Djibouti(Mogadishu24)-Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has officially launched his candidacy for the presidency of the African Union Commission (AUC) 2025. Speaking at the 5th Azerbaijan International Defense Exhibition (ADEX 2024), Youssouf outlined an ambitious vision for Africa’s future, emphasizing peace, governance, and economic progress.

The election for the African Union’s top seat, set for February 25, 2025, has drawn strong contenders from Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Djibouti. However, observers note that Djibouti and Kenya appear to be leading the race, as both countries intensify their campaigns to secure the influential role.

In his mission document titled “My Vision for Africa’s Radiant Future,” Youssouf outlined a multi-faceted agenda focused on transforming Africa into an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent.

Key Points of Youssouf’s Vision:

1. Governance and Democracy:
   Youssouf emphasized his commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring accountability, and condemning unconstitutional changes of power across the continent.
2. Peace and Security:
   He pledged to advance the AU’s “Silencing the Guns by 2030” initiative, addressing the root causes of conflict, such as poverty and inequality, through mediation and collaboration with member states, regional bodies, and civil society.
3. Economic and Social Development:
   Youssouf highlighted the need to deepen ties with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) and prioritize investments in education, health systems, and technology. He committed to promoting innovation and job creation to combat unemployment, particularly among Africa’s youth.
4. Infrastructure Development:
   Stressing the importance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Youssouf aims to drive strategic infrastructure projects, such as integrative railways and energy development, to spur economic growth.
5. Environmental Challenges:
   Addressing climate change, Youssouf called for transitioning to a green economy, investing in renewable energy, and implementing sustainable agricultural practices.
6. Youth and Gender Equality:
   The Djiboutian leader described Africa’s youth as its greatest resource and pledged to support education, employment, and entrepreneurship initiatives. He also underscored the importance of gender equality, ensuring women’s equal access to education, employment, and political participation.
7. Africa on the Global Stage:
   Youssouf committed to promoting Africa’s fair representation in global forums and advancing its economic and developmental interests on the international stage.

The Race for AU Leadership

While Djibouti’s candidacy is gaining momentum, Kenya remains a formidable competitor, with both nations actively working to secure the influential AUC presidency. The position is critical for steering continental policies, fostering unity, and representing Africa’s interests on the global stage.

With his extensive diplomatic experience and commitment to reform, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf presents himself as a unifying figure capable of achieving Agenda 2063—Africa’s blueprint for transformation.

The race for the African Union Commission presidency will continue to gain momentum in the coming months, culminating in the decisive vote on February 25, 2025.