Africa-Press – Ethiopia. Addis Ababa, March 13, 2025 (ENA)—The African Union (AU)’s commitment to reform and the realization of Agenda 2063 was stressed at an AUC leadership transition ceremony today.
A handover ceremony of leadership from the outgoing team led by Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat to the newly elected officials under incoming Chairperson Mohamed Ali Yusuf took place at the headquarters of the Union in Addis Ababa.
The ceremony was held in the presence of AU Chairperson João Lourenço of Angola, Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie, diplomats, and international partners.
The transition follows the successful election of new AUC officials during the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly in February 2025.
In his address at the ceremony, outgoing AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat highlighted key milestones achieved during his tenure, including the operationalization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Africa’s inclusion in the G20, and the strengthening of the AU’s institutional capacity.
“We leave behind a legacy of progress, but also a call to action,” Mahamat said, adding that “the challenges ahead are significant, but so too are the opportunities. I have no doubt that the incoming leadership will build on this foundation and take our continent to new heights.”
The outgoing AUC chairperson also pledged his continued support to the new leadership, emphasizing that the AU’s mission is a collective endeavor that transcends individual tenures.
On his part, incoming AUC Chairperson Mohamed Ali Yusuf commended the achievements of his predecessor and outlined an ambitious vision for the future.
He emphasized the need for the AU to be proactive, agile, and financially sustainable, with a focus on implementing the Second Ten-Year Plan of Agenda 2063 (2024-2034).
“Our people demand dignity, peace, and prosperity. It is our duty to translate these aspirations into tangible realities. We must take ownership of our destiny, strengthen our institutions, and ensure that Africa’s voice is heard loud and clear on the global stage,” he noted.
Yusuf identified key priorities for his tenure, including accelerating infrastructure development, advancing energy transition, and leveraging the AfCFTA to boost intra-African trade; stressing also the importance of institutional reforms to reduce bureaucracy and enhance AU’s efficiency.
Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie lauded the outgoing leadership for their contributions to the continent’s progress.
“The new leadership assumes office at a time of both challenges and opportunities from climate change to terrorism, and the tasks ahead are daunting. But with unity, determination, and visionary leadership, we can overcome these obstacles and build a brighter future for our people.”
The president reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to supporting the AU, emphasizing the country’s pride in hosting the continental body.
AU Chairperson Lourenço commended the outgoing AUC leadership for their transformative work, which he said had made the AU a more robust and capable institution.
He urged the incoming team to build on this legacy and prioritize infrastructure development, technological innovation, and energy transition.
“The African Union is more than an institution; it is a beacon of hope for our people,” the chairperson stated. “As we embark on this new chapter, let us remember that our success depends on our ability to work together, innovate, and remain steadfast in our commitment to the ideals of Agenda 2063.”
The incoming team embraced the responsibility of steering the AU toward a future defined by unity, prosperity, and global influence.
With a renewed focus on institutional reforms, financial sustainability, and strategic partnerships, the African Union is poised to tackle the challenges of the 21st century and fulfill the aspirations of its 1.4 billion people.
As Chairperson Yusuf aptly stated, “Africa is not just the cradle of mankind; it is the driver of tomorrow. Let us work together to make this vision a reality.”
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