Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos Addresses African Ambassadors residing in Addis Ababa

Ethiopia-EU Hold Their 2nd Structured Dialogue

Ethiopia and Tanzania Successfully Hold the First Joint Ministerial Commission

Algerian Foreign Minister Visits Ethiopia to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

The Mjadala Afrika Leadership Debate Highlights Key Issues for AU’s Future

 

NEWS IN BRIEF 

Ethiopia

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met at his office with General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of the Ugandan People’s Defence Forces, on Monday (December 16). The Prime Minister and the Ugandan Defense chief were joined by the Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), Field Marshal Birhanu Jula. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba was in Addis Ababa for a working visit at the invitation of his Ethiopian counterpart, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula.

Prime Minister Abiy received at his office the Minister of Foreign Affairs and National Community Abroad of Algeria, Ahmed Attaf, on Monday (December 16). Their discussionsfocused on strengthening the enduring ties between Ethiopia and Algeria. The Algerian Foreign Minister also held a discussion with Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos. (See article)

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timotheos, unveiled Ethiopia’s candidacy for membership in the African Union Peace and Security Council on Wednesday (December 18) during a meeting with African ambassadors residing in Addis Ababa. The minister sought the support of AU member states for Ethiopia’s membership for the 2025-2027 term, emphasizing Ethiopia’s long-standing commitment to peace, stability, and unity across the continent. (See article)

During the first Ethio-Tanzania Joint Ministerial Commission meeting in Addis Ababa on Tuesday (December 17), the two sides signed six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on trade, industry, aviation training, tourism training, livestock, and migration. In his opening remarks, Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos highlighted the meeting as a key step in strengthening the historical and solid ties between the two nations. Tanzania’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, on his part, affirmed that the first joint ministerial commission meeting underscored the strategic partnership between the two nations. (See article)

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos held discussions with China’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Ambassador Xue Bing, at his office on Thursday (December 19). On the occasion, Gedion noted the strong and unwavering Ethio-China All-Weather Strategic Partnership and called for China’s continued support in Ethiopia’s pursuit of regional peace and stability.

The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and AeTradeGroup on Thursday (December 19) signed a host country agreement aimed at establishing the regional headquarters for East Africa in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. During the signing ceremony, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, emphasized that the agreement is crucial for facilitating the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), creating job opportunities, stimulating start-ups, and strengthening the digital economy. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched a comprehensive capacity-building training program on Monday (December 16) aimed at enhancing Ethiopia’s conference tourism sector. The training, being held at the Africa Leadership Excellence Academy (AFLEX), is part of Ethiopia’s preparation for hosting the 38th African Union (AU) Summit of Heads of State and Government on February 15-16, 2025, and the 46th AU Executive Council Meeting on February 12-13, 2025. In her opening remarks, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of integrating urban development with conference tourism to boost Ethiopia’s diplomatic and economic standing.

Ethiopian lawmakers on Tuesday (December 17) approved a “Banking Proclamation,” a transformative shift in the financial sector by allowing foreign banks to establish a presence in the country. The legislation permits foreign banks to enter the market through several avenues, including establishing subsidiaries, opening branches or representative offices, or acquiring shares in local banks.

The National Dialogue Commission (NDC) commenced an agenda-gathering forum in the Oromia Region on Monday (December 16) in Adama city. According to the Commission, over 7,000 representatives, drawn from 356 districts and ten societal groups, are participating in discussions to identify agendas over five consecutive days. The discussions include selecting representatives who will work with stakeholders to refine and prioritize the proposed agendas. A specialized session for influential community members is scheduled for Saturday, December 21, 2024. This will be followed by a dialogue involving 1,700 participants, including regional officials and community representatives, from December 22 to December 24.

Ethiopia and Italy discussed ways to forge cooperation on forensic investigation, prevention of human trafficking, and exchange of experiences of the Coast Guard Police. The potential cooperation on security matters between the two countries came to light during a virtual meeting between Chief Commissioner of Ethiopian Federal Police, General DemelashGebre-Michael, and Advisor to Minister of International Relations at the Ministry of Interior of Italy, Efomia Esposito, on Wednesday (December 17). The two officials discussed cooperation in combating human trafficking, border control, material support, forensic investigation, and exchange of experience with the Coast Guard Police.

Ethiopia is set to host the Africa Evaluation Association’s continental conference from June 16 to 18, 2025, in Addis Ababa. The management body of the Africa Evaluation Association held discussions on Monday (December 16) with high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Planning and Development to review the ongoing preparations for the conference. During the meeting, Planning and Development State Minister Bereket Fishatsion emphasized the importance of the conference and highlighted the country’s readiness to serve as the host country.

Ethiopian Airlines announced on Tuesday (December 17) a partnership with the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for the establishment of Air Congo. Air Congo’s operations began with two Boeing 737-800 aircraft, serving domestic markets, starting with seven airports within the DRC, according to Ethiopian Airlines Group. This initiative aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ Vision 2035 strategy, which aims to establish multiple hubs across Africa, complementing existing partnerships with ASKY Airlines in Lomé, Malawi Airlines in Lilongwe, and Zambia Airways in Lusaka, it was stated during the partnership event.

Ethiopian troops serving with the African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) have been honored for their outstanding contributions to peace and security in Somalia. The soldiers, who recently completed their tour of duty, were honored for degrading Al-Shabaab and protecting local communities in South West State, the multidimensional mission noted in a press release published on its website on Tuesday (December 17). Presiding over the medal award ceremony in Baidoa on Tuesday, ATMIS Military Chief of Staff Brig. Gen. Kindu Gezupraised the soldiers for their courage, professionalism, and selfless service.

Djibouti

Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh presided over the ceremony dedicated to the national commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Djibouti Franc on Monday (December 16). The colorful event, held at the Djibouti Kempinski Palace Hotel, served as a privileged platform to highlight the key role of Djibouti’s currency in maintaining the economic sovereignty of the country. The commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the Djibouti Franc became even more of a national pride event, as the currency belongs to the small circle of founding elements upon which the unity and national cohesion have been built.

Kenya

Kenya’s economy is stable, and the government has laid a solid foundation for inclusive economic transformation, President William Ruto said last week on Thursday (December 12). Ruto made the remarks while celebrating Independence Day, marking 61 years since Kenya gained independence from Britain on Dec. 12, 1963.”We are no longer where we were a year ago, let alone two years ago. We have moved beyond pledges and commitments and are now making progress with our implementation strategies,” he said during the celebrations held in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital.

The Kenyan State Department, in collaboration with the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) and the Government of Denmark through DANIDA, hosted a two-day stakeholder validation workshop in Nairobi, Kenya, from 10-11 December 2024. The workshop focused on the integration of a “green supplement,” focused on coffee and tea value chains, as a key component of the national implementation strategy for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Somalia

Kenyan peacekeepers serving with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) celebrated their country’s 61st independence anniversary in a vibrant ceremony in Mogadishu on Thursday (December 12). 

The European Council decided to prolong the mandate of the EU Naval Force Operation ATALANTA and the EU’s military training mission in Somalia (EUTM Somalia) in part due to the instability in the region and the renewed rise of piracy. According to the Council’s announcement on Monday (December 16), these decisions were taken following a holistic strategic review of the Common Security and Defense Policy engagement in Somalia and the Horn of Africa.

The UN Security Council on Friday (December 13) adopted a resolution renewing the sanctions against the al-Shabaab terror group in Somalia until Feb. 28, 2025. The resolution, submitted by the UK, was unanimously adopted by the 15-member Security Council. It allows authorization for maritime interdiction to enforce the embargo on illicit arms imports, the ban on coal exports, and the prohibition on components for improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Sanction measures such as the arms embargo, travel bans, and asset freezes targeting al-Shabaab also remain in effect.

The United Nations said it requires $1.42 billion to increase humanitarian actions in Somalia, where 5.98 million people will need humanitarian assistance in 2025. Launching its 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP) for Somalia on Sunday (December 15), the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said 4.6 million people will be targeted for assistance focusing on lifesaving and life-sustaining assistance for people with the most severe needs.

South Sudan

South Sudan First Vice President Riek Machar Teny on Tuesday (December 17) assured migrants of the government’s commitment to protect their rights and welfare. Speaking during the opening of the Annual Migration Summit in Juba, Macharsaid the government will find better solutions that prioritize safety, equity, and opportunity for migrants. “We should protect migrant rights. 

Ethiopian Deputy Head of Mission, Ambassador AbabiDemissie, conferred with South Sudanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Director General for Bilateral Affairs, Ambassador Athony Akon, and Director General for African Affairs on Wednesday (December 19) on ways of enhancing bilateral cooperation. The diplomats exchanged ideas on ways of strengthening the economic ties, in particular to enhance border governance and harmonization of trade between the two sisterly countries. They further discussed the upcoming second edition of the Ethiopia-South Sudan investment and trade forum in Juba. The forum aims to create opportunities for business leaders and investors from both nations to explore potential partnerships and investments.

The Humanitarian Coordinator for South Sudan, Anita Kiki Gbeho, has released USD 8 million from the South Sudan Humanitarian Fund to support the multisectoral response to the cholera outbreak. According to a Wednesday (December 17) press statement from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the funds will be used in six priority locations across the country: Renk, Malakal, Maban, Aweil East, Rubkona, and Jamjang.

Sudan

Minister of Finance and Economic Planning Gebreil Ibrahim met, on the sidelines of his participation in the third Abidjan African Forum held in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on Wednesday, with the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, Akinwumi Adesina. The minister briefed the AfDB president on the latest developments and the effects of the current war on the economic, social, and humanitarian conditions in Sudan. He also expressed the Sudanese government’s appreciation for the continued support provided by the AFDB in various development fields.

Africa and the African Union 

Three candidates vying for the position of Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission participated in The MjadalaAfrika Leadership Debate. The debate was broadcast live to a global audience on Friday (December 13, 2024), from the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The debate provided a platform for each candidate to present their vision for Africa’s future and the AU’s role in addressing the continent’s challenges. (See article)

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Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos Addresses African Ambassadors Residing in Addis Ababa

Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos met with African Ambassadors residing in Addis Ababa on Wednesday (December 18) and extended his wishes to have a happy holiday season to the African Diplomatic community in Addis Ababa and stated that such events are important to gather as members of a big African family and foster closer acquaintance. He further conveyed Ethiopian Government’s appreciation for the generous support and understanding it has received from African Embassies in Addis Ababa for the success of the corridor development project.  

The Minister indicated that Africa has a common destiny and Africans must face the mounting global challenges facing the continent with a collective voice to ensure that Africa gets what it deserves on the international stage. He underlined Ethiopia’s firm commitment to peace on the continent by deploying peacekeepers in the African Union Peace missions in different countries over the years. He further expressed Ethiopia’s commitment to redouble its efforts for the success of African peace missions.

Gedion commended the dedicated leadership of the African Union Commission and statespersons from various countries contributing to the success of the Pretoria Peace Agreement and its implementation, and called on all those who raised arms to return to peaceful and legal conduct of politics. Furthermore, he noted progress in resolving differences with Somalia through the Ankara agreement.

The Minister also acknowledged the African Ambassadors for their warm reception and encouragement for Ethiopia’s announcement of its candidature for the membership of the AU-PSC for the period of 2025-2027. He reiterated that Ethiopia will do its utmost to shoulder the responsibilities entailed by the membership in the Council and redouble its efforts in the extensive participation in peace-making, peace enforcement, and peace-building missions at regional and continental levels. Furthermore, Dr Gedion reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to utilize its extensive experience in peace support missions to contribute to the AU’s effort in ensuring the maintenance of peace and stability in the continent.

In the discussion following the Minister’s remarks, African Ambassadors congratulated Ethiopia for reaching an agreement with Somalia on December 11 and expressed their hope that this agreement will bring positive development in the Horn of Africa. The Ambassadors also commended Ethiopia’s candidature to the AU-PSC and expressed their confidence that Ethiopia will bring dynamism to the Council and contribute significantly to the AU’s peace and security efforts.

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Ethiopia-EU Hold Their 2nd Structured Dialogue

Ethiopia and the EU have enjoyed more than fifty years of productive bilateral partnership in a wide range of issues such as development cooperation, trade and economic development, institution building, and regional peace and security. This longstanding relationship has been governed by a series of structured frameworks under the African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS)-EU Partnership Agreement. Starting from the Lomé Convention to the Cotonou Agreement and now the Samoa Agreement, Ethiopia has managed to maintain a highly productive engagement with the EU and its member states.

In an effort to bolster their relations, Ethiopia and the European Union also signed another landmark ‘Joint Declaration towards an EU-Ethiopia Strategic Engagement’ in 2016. The Declaration set up a mechanism for the parties to conduct an annual high-level dialogue under the framework of Article 8 of the Cotonou Agreement. The Declaration also outlined six sectoral areas that are pertinent to the full realization of the strategic engagement: Governance and Human Rights; Regional Peace and Security; Counter-Terrorism and Violent Radicalization; Migration; Social and Economic Development, Investment and Trade; and Climate Change and Environmental Cooperation.

It is against this backdrop that the Government of Ethiopia and the European Union held their second Structured Dialogue on 17 December 2024. The Ethiopian side, composed of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other line ministries and agencies, was led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos. The EU side, led by the Head of the Delegation of the EU to Ethiopia, Sofie From-Emmesberger, included Heads of Mission of all twenty-one EU member states with diplomatic representation in Addis Ababa.

The half-day discussion focused on three key areas: regional peace, stability, and recovery, including counter-terrorism efforts; economy, development, finance, business, and environment; as well as cooperation in the multilateral framework. The focused areas of discussion mirrored the key priority areas of both parties. Both parties confirmed their shared commitment to a strong and durable partnership, now further enhanced under the new Samoa Agreement. The dialogue, held just after the establishment of a new EU leadership team in Brussels, was seen as an important opportunity to consolidate the positive momentum towards a full normalization of relations and beyond.

On the bilateral front, the parties agreed to solidify the effective implementation of the bilateral agreements in socio-economic development. Appreciating the smooth implementation of the microeconomic reform, the EU side confirmed its continued commitment to realizing a resilient and prosperous economic environment in Ethiopia. The parties also agreed to consolidate the gains in peacebuilding efforts.

The parties further exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern. They reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Climate Agreement, as well as priorities and commitments in the area of human rights. Both parties also exchanged views on the importance of robust and coordinated diplomatic engagement in tackling the growing conflicts in the Horn of Africa and around the world. They also discussed the importance of consolidating a multilateral global order and the need for genuine reform toward that end.

To conclude, the Structured Dialogue has shown that it is high time for both Ethiopia and the EU to double their coordinated efforts to address the plethora of their common challenges. In discussing the above agenda items, the parties further clarified how intertwined their destinies are. To herald a better future for both parties, the Samoa Agreement and the Joint Declaration could serve as important milestones for candid and win-win engagement.

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Ethiopia and Tanzania Successfully Hold the First Joint Ministerial Commission

The First Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) between the Governments of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the United Republic of Tanzania was successfully held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from December 16-17, 2024.

The meeting was officially opened by Gedion Timotheos, Minister for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, and Ambassador MohamoudThabit Kombo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of Tanzania.

In his opening remarks, Gedion Timotheos welcomed the Tanzanian delegation and expressed Ethiopia’s honor in hosting the first JMC. He emphasized the long-standing history of solidarity and mutual support between Ethiopia and Tanzania and underscored the importance of the meeting in laying the foundation for broader cooperation across various sectors.

Ambassador Mohamoud Thabit Kombo, in his opening address, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception extended to the Tanzanian delegation. He highlighted the significance of the JMC in fostering economic and political collaboration and reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to strengthening ties with Ethiopia.

The JMC was preceded by the Senior Officials and Experts Meeting on December 16, 2024. Ambassador JemaludinMustapha, Ethiopia’s Director General for African Affairs, opened this session by welcoming the Tanzanian delegation and emphasizing the importance of the Joint Ministerial Commission in fostering cooperation between the two countries. The discussions were organized into two clusters: Economic and Social, and Political and Security, with each focusing on adopting agendas and working methods.

The meeting culminated in the signing of six key Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), which provide a framework for future cooperation:

1. MoU on Industry: Promotes industrial development through capacity building, technical support, and joint ventures.

2. MoU on Trade: Strengthens trade ties by addressing barriers and enhancing market access for goods and services.

3. MoU on Livestock Production and Research: Facilitates cooperation in livestock health, research, and productivity, contributing to rural development and food security.

4. MoU on Migration Matters: Promotes safe and orderly migration while addressing irregular migration and human trafficking.

5. MoU on Tourism Training: Enhances skills development in the tourism sector, supporting mutual growth in the industry.

6. MoU on Aviation: Strengthens air transport cooperation to boost connectivity, trade, and tourism.

The meeting was conducted in a warm and cordial atmosphere, reflecting the shared vision and long-standing friendship between Ethiopia and Tanzania. Both sides emphasized the importance of implementing the signed MoUs to foster mutual growth and development.

The First Ethiopia-Tanzania Joint Ministerial Commission concluded successfully, with both parties agreeing to work closely to ensure the effective implementation of the agreements. The second session of the Joint Ministerial Commission will be hosted by Tanzania, reflecting the commitment to sustained and structured engagement.

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Algerian Foreign Minister Visits Ethiopia to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

The Foreign Minister and National Community Abroad of People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, Ahmed Attaf, visited Ethiopia on December 16th, 2024, further strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two nations. During his stay the Algerian Foreign Minister met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos.

Ethiopia and Algeria are both known for their shared Pan-African spirit. Ethiopia has consistently supported African agendas on international platforms, reinforcing its commitment to the continent’s unity and development. During discussions, both Foreign Ministers highlighted the strength of political relations but emphasized the need for deeper economic collaboration, focusing on trade, investment, tourism, and other sectors. To further strengthen these ties, the two ministers agreed to hold the next Joint Ministerial Commission under the theme of enhancing economic and people-to-people connections.

In addition to talks with the Foreign Minister, the Algerian Minister also met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and conveyed a message from the President of Algeria, AbdelmadjidTebboune. They discussed a wide range of cooperative efforts on both bilateral and continental issues, exploring opportunities for joint action on international platforms, with a shared goal of advancing the African Agenda and fostering greater unity among African nations.

This visit underscores the commitment of both countries to not only maintain but also deepen their partnership for the benefit of their people and the continent as a whole.

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The Mjadala Afrika Leadership Debate Highlights Key Issues for AU’s Future

Three candidates vying for the position of Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission participated in a pivotal leadership debate titled “Mjadala Afrika,” with the word “Mjadala” derived from the Swahili term meaning “debate” or “discussion.” The debate was broadcast live to a global audience on Friday (December 13, 2024), from the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. 

The debate provided a platform for each candidate to present their vision for Africa’s future and the AU’s role in addressing the continent’s challenges. The format included five-minute introductions from each candidate, followed by four rounds of questions, where they had four minutes to respond. The event concluded with two-minute closing statements. The debate was opened by Ambassador Konjit Sinegiorgis, chair of the AU’s Panel of Eminent Africans, and focused on key issues such as economic integration, peace, security, and the role of the AU on the global stage.

In her opening remarks, Ambassador Konjit Sinegiorgishighlighted the significance of the election, noting the progress Africa has made since colonial times, while acknowledging the remaining work to achieve the goals of Agenda 2063. She expressed regret over the absence of a female candidate and underscored the importance of a strong, united African Union in addressing Africa’s inequalities and global challenges. The debate questions, designed by an independent panel, covered crucial topics including conflict resolution, economic sustainability, and Africa’s global influence.

Ambassador Konjit Sinegiorgis expressed gratitude for the public’s participation, ensuring that citizens’ concerns were central to the debate.

The Djiboutian, Kenyan, and Madagascan candidates, in order of their appearance, introduced themselves and outlined their visions for Africa’s future. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Djibouti, emphasized the need for a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa. He called for strengthening intra-African trade, modernizing agriculture, and enhancing Africa’s global presence. He highlighted the importance of women’s involvement and financial independence for the AU.  Raila Amolo Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya, presented his political experience and commitment to Pan-Africanism. He stressed the need for a united Africa as it was envisioned by the founding fathers of the OAU and argued that his experience as the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure would help drive the continent’s development. Richard James Randriamandrato, former Foreign Minister of Madagascar, shared his personal journey and emphasized the importance of competent leadership to harness Africa’s economic potential. He also acknowledged the AU’s current limitations and the need for strong, visionary leadership.

Throughout the debate, the candidates addressed Africa’s economic challenges, including the need for sustainable development and reduced dependency on external resources. They discussed how Africa’s vast resource wealth could be leveraged to reduce debt and ensure economic independence. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf stressed the need to improve intra-African trade and agricultural modernization. Raila AmoloOdinga focused on adding value to raw materials before export and addressing infrastructure gaps, while Richard J. Randriamandrato emphasized the role of agriculture in local development and managing resources domestically.

In the second round, candidates tackled the issue of Africa’s ongoing conflicts and the African Union’s goal to “silence the guns” by 2030. Raila Odinga pointed out that poverty and internal divisions were key drivers of conflict and called for Africa’s permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf underscored the lack of political will and resources for peacekeeping and suggested a more proactive role for the AU. Richard J. Randriamandratoechoed the call for AU representation on the Security Council and advocated for Africa to handle its own peacekeeping efforts instead of relying on external actors.

As the debate progressed, candidates proposed solutions for strengthening the AU’s capacity to address the continent’s challenges. They discussed the implementation of reforms under Assembly Decision 635, which have been delayed, largely due to financing issues. Richard J. Randriamandrato suggested prioritizing reforms in financing, strategic partnerships, and peace efforts. Odinga proposed creating an African infrastructure fund, utilizing sovereign funds to finance critical projects like the Trans-African Railway Network. MahamoudAli Youssouf emphasized securing financing, improving coordination, and advancing reforms such as transforming the Pan-African Parliament into a legislative body.

In their closing remarks, the candidates reiterated their commitment to Africa’s development. Raila Odinga emphasized the need for financial reform, including encouraging all African countries to contribute to AU funding. He stressed that Africa must fund its own organization, much like the European Union. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf expressed his readiness to defend Africa’s interests and lead with dedication. Richard J. Randriamandrato acknowledged the challenges ahead but remained optimistic, calling for effective leadership to guide the continent toward sustainable development. The debate concluded with the candidates presenting their vision for a stronger, more integrated Africa, ready to face global challenges and realize the goals of Agenda 2063.

This historic debate marked a significant step in the election process for the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, offering the public a deeper understanding of each candidate’s vision and policies for Africa’s future. The election is set to take place in February next year, with the winner tasked with leading the African Union through the critical years ahead.

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