The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has the honour to announce the appointment of H.E. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, former President of the United Republic of Tanzania, as High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.

In this capacity, H.E. President Kikwete will support the African Union’s efforts to address the complex political, peace and security dynamics across the region. His mandate will include, inter alia, advancing preventive diplomacy, facilitating inclusive political dialogue, promoting confidence-building among stakeholders, and strengthening regional cooperation mechanisms aimed at fostering sustainable peace and stability.

The High Representative will work in close coordination with relevant regional and international partners, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African Community (EAC), the League of Arab States, the United Nations, and other partners, with a view to ensuring coherence, complementarity and effectiveness in collective efforts to promote peace, stability and security. This coordinated engagement is particularly critical considering the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea for international trade and the broader stability of the African continent.

The Chairperson expresses his full confidence that the experience, leadership and wisdom of H.E. President Kikwete will make a significant contribution to supporting countries in the region, as well as relevant regional and international mechanisms, in addressing prevailing challenges and advancing durable peace, stability and prosperity.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Mr. Nuur Mohamud Sheekh I Spokesperson of the AUC Chairperson I African Union Commission I Email: SheekhN@AfricanUnion.org | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia