Faith Nyasuguta
Three influential leaders, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, Richard Randriamandrato, and Raila Odinga are competing for the Africa Union Commission (AUC) chair, each bringing extensive experience in diplomacy, governance, and economic strategy.
MAHAMOUD ALI YOUSSOUF, DJIBOUTI, AGE: 59
Mahamoud Ali Youssouf has had a distinguished career in Djibouti’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he headed the Arab affairs department during the 1990s. He served as Ambassador to Egypt from 1997 to 2001. Following this, Youssouf was appointed as Minister-Delegate for International Cooperation on July 4, 2001.
Later, he became the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation on May 22, 2005. In 2008, Youssouf chaired the 129th Ordinary Session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Arab League. During an interview with The New York Times in 2008, Youssouf noted that Djibouti’s small size belied its substantial port and ambitious plans to follow Dubai’s economic model. He highlighted the strategic benefits of the country’s location, which he believed eclipsed Dubai’s.
Youssouf’s extensive experience in international diplomacy and his visionary leadership have positioned him as a strong candidate for the African Union Commission (AUC) presidency. His strategic insights and commitment to fostering cooperation among African nations are expected to be pivotal in addressing the continent’s challenges.
RICHARD JAMES RANDRIAMANDRATO, MADAGASCAR, AGE: 55
James Richard Randriamandrato served as Madagascar’s Minister of Economy and Finance from 2018 to 2021 and then briefly as Minister of Foreign Affairs from March to October 2022. He was dismissed for supporting a UN resolution in favor of Ukraine, contrary to current President Andry Rajoelina’s wishes.
Randriamandrato has worked with the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), giving him a deep understanding of international diplomacy and finance. His background in economic management and international cooperation makes him a compelling candidate for the AUC presidency.
Randriamandrato’s expertise in economic development and his experience with international organizations are expected to contribute significantly to the AUC’s mission of promoting sustainable development and economic integration across Africa.
MZEE RAILA AMOLLO ODINGA, KENYA, AGE: 80
Born on January 7, 1945, Raila Odinga is an esteemed Kenyan politician who served as the Prime Minister of Kenya from 2008 to 2013. He was the Member of Parliament (MP) for Langata Constituency from 1992 to 2013 and has held the position of Leader of Opposition in Kenya since 2013. Odinga leads the Azimio la Umoja, One Kenya Coalition Party and served as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development in 2017.
Odinga’s extensive political career and his commitment to infrastructure development have earned him a reputation as a dedicated leader. His work as the African Union High Representative for Infrastructure Development focused on promoting regional integration and enhancing connectivity across the continent.
Odinga’s vision for Africa’s future includes strengthening infrastructure, promoting economic development, and advocating for social justice. His candidacy for the AUC presidency is expected to bring a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to the African Union’s goals.
These three candidates bring a diverse set of experiences and expertise to the table. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf’s diplomatic background, Richard James Randriamandrato’s economic and international cooperation experience, and Raila Odinga’s focus on infrastructure development make them all strong contenders for the AUC presidency. The election will determine who will lead the African Union Commission in addressing the continent’s challenges and promoting its development.
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