In a wide-ranging media encounter held today, His Excellency Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), outlined a forward-looking and ambitious roadmap for Africa’s development, underpinned by peace, self-reliance, and inclusive growth.

In his address, the Chairperson reaffirmed the African Union’s steadfast commitment to realising the aspirations of Agenda 2063, while acknowledging progress made and articulating strategic imperatives for the continent's future.

Key Themes and Strategic Priorities Highlighted Include:

1. Peace and Security as Cornerstones of Development: Chairperson Youssouf reiterated that sustainable development cannot be achieved without peace. He underscored strengthened conflict prevention mechanisms, the operational readiness of the African Standby Force, and enhanced early warning systems as critical tools to address terrorism and deter unconstitutional changes of government.

2. Advancing Financial Sovereignty and Innovation: To reduce dependence on external resources and catalyse homegrown solutions, the Chairperson announced several innovative financial instruments, including:
• AU-endorsed African Diaspora Bonds to tap into over $95 billion in annual remittances.
• A proposed continental e-commerce levy to harness the growing digital economy.
• Plans to establish an AU Sovereign Wealth Fund, aimed at ensuring long-term macroeconomic stability.

3. Africa’s Strategic Voice in the G20: The AUC Chairperson affirmed the continent’s proactive engagement within the G20 framework, championing global financial architecture reforms, advocating for infrastructure investment, and prioritising Africa’s trade and development interests.

4. Fast-Tracking the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA): The AU is accelerating the implementation of AfCFTA by addressing logistical bottlenecks and dismantling non-tariff barriers. The initiative is expected to increase intra-African trade by more than 50%, creating millions of jobs and boosting livelihoods across the continent.

5. Youth Empowerment and Digital Transformation: Recognising Africa’s demographic dividend, the Chairperson spotlighted ongoing efforts to empower young people through the AU Start-up Act Model Law, digital skills initiatives, and the launch of a Continental Artificial Intelligence Strategy—designed to close the digital divide and foster ethical, inclusive innovation.

6. Strengthening Strategic Partnerships: Looking ahead to key diplomatic engagements - including the Third EU-AU Foreign Affairs Ministerial Meeting on 21 May 2025 - Chairperson Youssouf highlighted the AU’s resolve to deepen cooperation on peace, migration, and multilateral governance. He also reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to strengthening ties with BRICS and Arab partners, with a shared focus on infrastructure, energy, and sustainable development.

In his closing remarks, Chairperson Youssouf issued a compelling call for unity, discipline, and bold leadership, noting that Africa must define its own path and assert its place within an evolving global order.

For media inquiries, please contact:
1. Mr. Nuur Mohamud Sheekh I Spokesperson of the Chairperson I African Union Commission I Email: SheekhN@AfricanUnion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
2. Ms. Wynne Musabayana| Head, Communication Division| Directorate of Information and Communication, African Union Commission | E-mail: Musabayanaw@africa-union.org
3. Mr. Gamal Ahmed A. Karrar| Senior Communication Officer| Directorate of Information and Communication, African Union Commission | E-mail: GamalK@africa-union.org