The race to lead the African Union (AU) Commission is heating up, with high-profile candidates from East Africa competing for the influential role. The successor to outgoing Chairman Moussa Faki Mahamat will shape policies on regional security, economic integration, and conflict resolution.
Among the leading contenders is Raila Odinga, Kenya’s former prime minister, who has pledged to prioritize peace and stability across the continent. “Africa cannot afford endless conflicts. My administration will focus on resolving disputes and tackling root causes of instability,” Odinga said in a recent speech.
Djibouti’s foreign minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, is also in the running. Youssouf has built his campaign around strengthening regional security and promoting unity across linguistic and cultural divides. “A more united Africa is a stronger Africa,” he stated, emphasizing the need for deeper cooperation among AU member states.
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Richard Randriamandrato, Madagascar’s former foreign minister, is positioning himself as the economic candidate. He has promised to push for full trade liberalization, aiming to unlock Africa’s economic potential and drive inclusive growth. “The AU must lead in ensuring Africa benefits from globalization and trade,” he said.
With the AU’s growing influence in global affairs, the upcoming election is seen as a crucial moment for the continent. The winner will oversee policies affecting 1.4 billion people and guide Africa’s response to economic and security challenges. The election is expected to take place later this year, with intense lobbying already underway.
