It’s East Africa’s Turn: The Past, Present, and Future of AU Leadership

Since its establishment in 2002, the African Union (AU) Commission has played a vital role in shaping the continent’s policies on governance, peace, and economic development. The Chairperson of the AU Commission serves as the executive head, implementing decisions and driving the AU’s vision. Over the years, the position has been held by leaders from different regions of Africa, with each making significant contributions.

As the AU prepares for its next Chairperson elections in February 2025, it is East Africa’s turn to lead the Commission, following the rotational leadership system among Africa’s five regions. This shift will bring new opportunities and challenges for the continent’s leadership. But before we look ahead, let’s reflect on the past Chairpersons and their legacies.

Past Chairpersons of the AU Commission

1. Amara Essy (2002–2003) – Ivory Coast (Acting Chairperson)

As the first Acting Chairperson, Amara Essy oversaw the transition from the Organization of African Unity (OAU) to the AU. His primary role was to establish the AU’s structure and governance, ensuring a smooth institutional shift.

2. Alpha Oumar Konaré (2003–2008) – Mali

The first official Chairperson, Konaré strengthened the AU’s peacekeeping efforts, particularly in Sudan’s Darfur conflict, and championed electoral reforms across Africa. He was instrumental in expanding AU programs on regional integration and economic development.

3. Jean Ping (2008–2012) – Gabon

A skilled diplomat, Ping played a key role in mediating post-election crises in like Côte d'Ivoire (2010–2011). However, his tenure was overshadowed by the AU’s weak response to the 2011 Libyan crisis, where NATO intervened without African-led mediation.

4. Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma (2012–2017) – South Africa

The first female Chairperson of the AU Commission, Dlamini-Zuma introduced Agenda 2063, the AU’s long-term blueprint for Africa’s development. She also led Africa’s response to the Ebola outbreak (2014–2016) and promoted gender equality across the AU.

5. Moussa Faki (2017–Present) – Chad

Currently serving his second term, Faki has focused on:

1. ✅Implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)

2. ✅ Strengthening AU peacekeeping missions in Ethiopia, Sudan, and the Sahel

3. ✅Leading Africa’s response to COVID-19 and vaccine distribution

4. ✅ Advocating for AU institutional reforms and greater financial independence

What’s Next? The 2025 AU Chairperson Election & East Africa’s Turn

With Moussa Faki’s tenure ending in 2025, the AU will soon elect a new Chairperson. Following the regional rotation system, East Africa is next in line to lead the Commission.

Potential Candidates

Top contenders for the position include:

1. H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf (Djibouti)

2. H.E. Raila Amolo Odinga (Kenya)

3. H.E. Richard Randriamandrato (Madagascar)

Key Challenges Ahead

The next Chairperson must tackle:

1. ✅ Conflict resolution in Sudan, Ethiopia, and the Sahel

2. ✅ Boosting intra-African trade through AfCFTA

3. ✅ Strengthening Africa’s voice in global governance (UN, G20)

4. ✅ Enhancing AU’s financial independence