Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
In a recent interview with AFP, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister and African Union candidate, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, expressed concern over the worsening security situation in parts of Africa, which is undermining the continent’s progress. Youssouf emphasized that recent coups and escalating conflicts, coupled with the adverse effects of climate change, are creating significant challenges for Africa’s future.
“The continent is facing numerous difficulties right now,” Youssouf said during the interview in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Since 2020, countries like Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso in the Sahel have experienced coups, while Sudan has been embroiled in a civil war since April 2023, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths and millions of displaced people.
“I believe the governance issue in these countries is a key problem,” Youssouf added. He noted that these ongoing challenges are stalling Africa’s development and emphasized the need for the African Union’s new leadership to prioritize peace and security in order to achieve long-term goals, such as establishing a continent-wide free trade zone.
Despite these obstacles, Youssouf remains optimistic about Africa’s future. He pointed to the continent’s growing role on the global stage, particularly with the African Union’s inclusion in the G20 and its aspirations for two permanent seats on the UN Security Council.
When asked about the recent election of Donald Trump in the United States, Youssouf refrained from commenting directly, stating that any policy from his administration would be evaluated impartially and without bias.
Youssouf, 59, has served as Djibouti’s foreign minister since 2005. He is vying for the top position at the African Union against candidates such as veteran Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga and Madagascar’s Richard Randriamandrato. The election will take place during the February 2025 AU summit, where the winner will be chosen by secret ballot.
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