New AUC Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s Focus on Peace Initiatives in Africa

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission, visited Angola to focus on peace and security in the DRC and South Sudan. His discussions with President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço reinforced commitments to peace initiatives and highlighted broader AU priorities, including economic transformation and regional stability efforts.

Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the newly appointed Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), has embarked on his inaugural visit to Luanda, Angola, focusing on Africa’s critical security challenges, particularly the ongoing crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This two-day engagement from March 18 to 19 involved discussions with Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, who is also the current Chairperson of the African Union, reiterating their mutual dedication to fostering peace and stability across the continent.

During their meeting, both leaders reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to “advancing peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent,” highlighting the importance of the fragile Luanda peace process. They collectively advocated for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in the DRC, amidst its persistent militia violence challenges. The AU’s statement praised President Lourenço for his diplomatic leadership in the region.

In addition to addressing the DRC, Youssouf expanded the conversation to include conflict-affected areas in South Sudan and Somalia, emphasizing the significance of sustained African Union involvement to aid stabilization and promote inclusive political dialogues. The talks further encompassed broader AU priorities, specifically the enhancement of Africa’s peace architecture and support for regional organizations in mitigating emerging security threats.

A focal point of their discussions was the “Silencing the Guns” agenda, marked as a vital initiative for ensuring long-term peace and stability in Africa. Regarding economic initiatives, both leaders expressed anticipation for forthcoming events like the US-Africa Business Forum scheduled for June 2025 and the AU’s Infrastructure Summit set for October 2025, as essential opportunities for investment aligned with Africa’s Agenda 2063.

In his address to the diplomatic community, Youssouf articulated his strategic vision for the Commission, committing to “work closely with international partners” to achieve Africa’s developmental objectives. He affirmed, “The African Union remains resolute in promoting peace, security, and development across the continent,” underscoring his intention to realign the AU’s focus on peace and security, particularly regarding the eastern DRC.

In conclusion, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf’s first official visit to Angola marks a significant step towards addressing pressing security issues in Africa, notably in the DRC and South Sudan. The emphasis on promoting peace, strengthening regional frameworks, and fostering economic transformation underlines the African Union’s comprehensive approach to stability and development. This visit not only reflects Youssouf’s commitment to these goals but also signifies a proactive stance in the AU’s peace and security efforts in the continent.

Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke