Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the newly elected Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), arrived in Somalia on Sunday, March 23, 2025, for a two-day official visit.
This trip underscores Somalia’s leadership in security and stabilization efforts, aligns AU-Somalia priorities on the AUSSOM transition, and seeks to mobilize global support for Somalia’s security initiatives.
Youssouf, who has been Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005, was elected as the AUC Chairperson at the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government on February 16, 2025, succeeding Moussa Faki Mahamat.
His extensive diplomatic experience positions him well to address the continent’s challenges.
In his new role, Youssouf has appointed key officials to strengthen the AU’s leadership team.
Notably, he appointed H.E. Mohamed El-Amine Souef as the new Chief of Staff and Amb. Moussa Mohamed Omar as the new Deputy Chief of Staff in his cabinet.
Youssouf’s visit to Somalia signifies the AU’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s security and stabilization efforts, aligning with the AUSSOM transition, and mobilizing global support for these initiatives.