Chairperson of the AU Commission Appoints President Jakaya Kikwete as the AU High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea

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