Djibouti's Youssouf Vows to Boost AU’s Execution Rate If Elected

Addis Ababa December 13/2024 (ENA)—Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has pledged to elevate the African Union’s (AU) execution rate if he is elected as Chairperson of the AU Commission.

Youssouf talked about his agenda for the African Union at the Djibouti Embassy in Addis Ababa on Thursday if he is elected as chairperson of the Union.

He outlined an ambitious agenda focusing on good governance, economic development, and youth and women’s empowerment.

“The first 10-year plan that concluded in 2024 had an execution rate of only 37 percent,” Youssouf stated.

“This has to be increased and improved. My leadership will focus on ensuring that decisions made by our leaders should be effectively implemented,” he said.

With over 33 years of diplomatic experience, including 20 years as Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, his candidacy brings a wealth of expertise, he elaborated.

With Fluency in English, French, and Arabic—the three major languages of the AU—he aims to bridge communication gaps and foster greater inclusivity across the continent.

According to him, his vision is built around five key pillars including good governance, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and regional integration.

He also emphasized the need for greater youth and women’s participation at the AU decision-making processes.

 

“Today, African youth represent more than 40 percent of our population. We must ensure that their voices are heard and that their concerns are taken on board,” he said. “We’ll also focus on the digital revolution, which is a game-changer for our continent.”

Youssouf’s campaign also prioritizes transparency and accountability within the AU’s leadership structure, he said.

“Synergy, coordination, and accountability will be the golden rules of my leadership,” he declared, vowing to create a people-centered organization that reflects the aspirations of African citizens.

Regarding Africa’s role on the global stage, Youssouf promised to push for fair representation in key international institutions, including permanent membership at the United Nations Security Council and Africa's expanded influence in global financial institutions such as the IMF and World Bank.

 All candidates are set to participate in the Leadership Debate tomorrow, December 13, 2024, at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa.