By Staff Writer
(Addis Ababa, Ethiopia) — Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, officially opened the 49th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, welcoming foreign ministers, members of the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC), and international delegates.
Opening the session, Chairperson Youssouf congratulated H.E. Amb. Édouard Bizimana, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of Burundi, on assuming the Chairmanship of the Executive Council, assuring him of the Commission’s full backing during his tenure.
Addressing delegates, Mr. Youssouf noted that the Council convenes during a period of heightened global geopolitical tension, pointing specifically to the conflict in the Middle East and its supply chain implications for African economies through the Strait of Hormuz. He affirmed that the Commission remains actively engaged in providing regular policy analysis to support coordinated responses among member states.
On continental peace and security, the Chairperson raised concerns over the spread of violent extremism and terrorism across parts of Africa. Referencing recent solidarity visits to the Sahel region, he reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to helping member states tackle shared security threats.
Regarding public health, Mr. Youssouf addressed the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Extending condolences to affected families, he confirmed that the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is actively coordinating continental response efforts alongside regional and international partners.
Turning to financial and structural matters, the Chairperson expressed appreciation to the PRC and international development partners for sustaining support for AU programs.
However, he emphasized that achieving the targets set under Agenda 2063 will require significantly higher financial mobilization. Mr. Youssouf stated that the Commission’s primary role is to foster the policy and institutional environment necessary to attract public and private investment across the continent.
On internal reforms, the Chairperson reported that the Commission has completed the implementation of the Skills Audit & Competency Assessment (SACA) process. He reiterated the leadership’s focus on prudent financial management, accountability, and results-based delivery.
In conclusion, Mr. Youssouf called on member states to accelerate the ratification of outstanding AU legal instruments to strengthen the Union’s institutional framework, while urging continued backing for African candidates seeking elected posts within international organizations.
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