Africa’s Christian Professionals to Support Newly Elected AU Commission Leadership in “driving meaningful reforms”
Members of the Africa Christian Professionals Forum (ACPF) have pledged their support for the new leadership of the African Union Commission (AUC) in driving impactful reforms to transform the continent.
In a congratulatory message shared on their Facebook page on February 15, the day the new AUC office bearers were elected, ACPF members applauded Mahamoud Ali Youssouf on his election as AUC Chairperson and H.E. Selma Malika on her election as Deputy Chairperson.
“Your leadership marks the beginning of a new chapter in Africa’s pursuit of unity, progress, and sustainable development,” the forum stated in their message, posted shortly after the Djiboutian leader was declared the winner.
They further expressed their commitment to collaborating with the African Union leadership to advance the goals of #Agenda2063, emphasizing the importance of reforms that strengthen African nations across governance, economic development, peace and security, and social transformation.
Mr. Youssouf, who has served as Djibouti’s foreign minister since 2005, secured the AUC’s top position after seven rounds of voting, achieving the required 33 votes in the final round of the elections held on February 15 at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
His main competitor, Kenya’s former Prime Minister and opposition leader Raila Amolo Odinga, withdrew from the race after the sixth round. Another contender, Richard Randriamandrato, Madagascar’s former foreign minister, exited after the third round.
Set to begin his four-year term in March 2025, Youssouf will succeed Moussa Faki Mahamat of Chad, who has led the AUC since 2017.
In their message, Africa’s Christian Professionals highlighted the significance of Youssouf’s leadership in shaping policies that uphold African values and promote a prosperous, resilient, and inclusive future.
They also extended their best wishes for success to the newly elected AUC Chairperson and his Deputy, reaffirming their commitment to supporting the African Union’s vision for #TheAfricaWeWant.