Who is the President of the African Union?
The African Union (AU), a continental body comprising 55 member states, plays a crucial role in fostering unity, cooperation, and development within Africa. The leadership of this esteemed organization rotates among its member states, with a new Chairperson elected every year. But who is the president of the African Union right now?
The African Union: A Brief Overview
Established on 9th July 2002 as a successor to the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the AU aims to achieve greater unity, cohesion and solidarity between the African countries and their peoples. It also strives to accelerate the political and socio-economic integration of the continent, promote and defend common positions on issues of interest to the continent and its peoples, and contribute to the establishment of a peaceful and secure environment.
The AU comprises several principal organs, including the Assembly, the Executive Council, the Peace and Security Council, and the African Court of Justice. The organisation’s work impacts various aspects of life on the continent, from promoting peace and security to advancing economic development and championing good governance.
The African Union Chairperson: Not the “President”
While the media and general public sometimes refer to the leader of the African Union as the “President,” the correct title is the Chairperson of the African Union Commission. The AU Commission is the AU’s secretariat and administrative body, headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The Chairperson is the AU’s ceremonial head and the chief executive officer of the AU Commission. They are elected by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union for a two-year term, renewable once. The Chairperson’s responsibilities include:
- Representing the AU at international events
- Leading the AU Commission and overseeing its work
- Promoting the AU’s vision, mission, and objectives
- Working to resolve conflicts and promote peace and security in Africa
- Advocating for the interests of Africa on the global stage
So, Who is the Current Chairperson of the African Union?
As of 2023, the Chairperson of the African Union is H.E. Azali Assoumani, the President of the Union of Comoros. He assumed office on 18 February 2023, succeeding H.E. Macky Sall, the President of Senegal.
Azali Assoumani addressing the African Union
President Assoumani brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in various capacities in the Comorian government. His priorities as Chairperson include:
- Promoting peace and security: With a focus on addressing the root causes of conflict and promoting dialogue and reconciliation.
- Accelerating economic development: By championing the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other initiatives aimed at boosting intra-African trade and investment.
- Strengthening good governance: By promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law across the continent.
- Addressing climate change: By advocating for greater international cooperation to support Africa’s adaptation and mitigation efforts.
The African Union’s Impact and Future
The African Union plays a vital role in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the African continent. Under the leadership of Chairperson Azali Assoumani, the AU is well-positioned to continue driving progress towards its vision of “an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.”
FAQs About the African Union
1. How many countries are in the African Union?
There are 55 member states in the African Union.
2. Where is the African Union headquartered?
The African Union is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
3. How often is the Chairperson of the African Union elected?
The Chairperson of the African Union is elected every two years.
4. What are the main objectives of the African Union?
The main objectives of the African Union include achieving greater unity and solidarity between African countries, promoting peace and security, accelerating political and socio-economic integration, and promoting democratic principles and good governance.
5. What is the role of the African Union Commission?
The African Union Commission serves as the secretariat and administrative body of the African Union, responsible for implementing the decisions and policies of the AU’s higher organs.
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