The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has appointed former President of Tanzania, Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, as the African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.
In this capacity, Kikwete will support the African Union’s efforts to address complex political, peace, and security dynamics across one of Africa’s most strategic and volatile regions.
According to the Commission, his mandate includes 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 key regional and international partners, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African Community (EAC), the League of Arab States, and the United Nations. The collaboration is intended to ensure coherence and effectiveness in collective peace efforts, particularly given the Horn of Africa and Red Sea corridor’s critical importance to global trade and regional stability.
Chairperson Youssouf expressed full confidence in Kikwete’s experience, leadership, and diplomatic stature, stating that his appointment will significantly contribute to supporting countries in the region and relevant institutions in addressing prevailing challenges.
Kikwete served as President of Tanzania from 2005 to 2015 and has remained actively engaged in continental diplomacy and conflict resolution initiatives. His appointment signals the African Union’s continued emphasis on preventive engagement and multilateral cooperation in managing crises in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea basin.
