Elizabeth Antidius Shumbusho | Africa Guardian
The African Union (AU), established in 2002 to replace the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), is a coalition of 55 African nations committed to unity, self-determination, and regional cooperation. As the AU prepares for the 2025 elections, three distinguished candidates are vying for the prestigious role of Chairperson. These individuals bring diverse backgrounds, visions, and strategies to tackle Africa’s key challenges and opportunities.
H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti)
A seasoned diplomat with over 20 years of experience, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf has served as Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation since 2005. He holds degrees in business management from the University of Liverpool and further education in Canada and Belgium. Djibouti nominated Youssouf for the AU Chairperson position in April 2024.
His platform emphasizes integration, peace, prosperity, and good governance, all in line with the African Union’s Agenda 2063. Youssouf aims to prioritize governance reforms, democracy, security, infrastructure, and youth and diaspora inclusion. His experience in diplomacy, including his tenure as an ambassador and head of the Arab Affairs Department, equips him to navigate global geopolitics and strengthen Africa’s position on the world stage.
Raila Amolo Odinga (Kenya)
A well-known Kenyan political figure and Pan-Africanist, Raila Odinga has played key roles in government and opposition since the 1990s. Serving as Kenya’s Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013, Odinga has built a reputation as a strong advocate for democracy, peace, and unity. His candidacy for AU Chairperson is backed by Kenyan President William Ruto.
Odinga’s leadership focuses on leveraging Africa’s natural and human resources to propel prosperity. His priorities include successfully implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement, managing conflicts, and enhancing Africa’s global influence. With extensive experience as a mediator and political visionary, Odinga is committed to addressing the continent’s challenges and driving collaborative progress for Africa’s future.
Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar)
Richard Randriamandrato, an expert in governance and international relations, brings a fresh perspective to the AU Chairperson race. His vision centers on refining the AU’s Agenda 2063, taking lessons from its first decade to guide future progress.
Randriamandrato advocates for strong solidarity between African nations to safeguard the continent’s interests amid global competition, particularly concerning natural resources and international power dynamics. He stresses the importance of proactive conflict resolution and enhancing the AU’s mediation capacity. His strategic approach focuses on diplomacy, sustainable development, institutional reform, and creating lasting dialogues to address tensions across the continent.
Each candidate brings a unique vision for Africa’s future, and the 2025 elections will be pivotal in shaping the direction of the African Union.
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