Mauritania President Mohamed Ghazouani elected AU chair

President Mohamed Ghazouani of Mauritania has been elected as the new chairman of the African Union (AU) for  2024 during the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union Heads of State and Government.

President Ghazouani succeeded President Azali Assoumani of the Comoros, who served as the AU Chairperson for 2023.

The succession had been delayed due to a longstanding dispute between Morocco and Algeria.

However, with the smooth transfer of leadership on Saturday, the bloc successfully navigated through the challenges, demonstrating a united front in its mission to enhance its global influence, particularly within the G20 grouping, where it gained membership in September.

Known for his wealth of experience and diplomatic skills, President Ghazouani is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the AU's agenda as it endeavours to address pressing issues and promote the collective interests of its member states.

His election marks a moment of optimism for the AU, signalling a commitment to unity and collaboration in the face of complex regional and global challenges.

As the newly elected chairman, Ghazouani expressed his dedication to advancing the AU's goals and pledged to work tirelessly towards a more prosperous, secure, and integrated Africa.

The international community now watches with anticipation as the AU, under President Ghazouani's leadership, embarks on a new chapter in its pursuit of continental progress and cooperation.

Gathering almost forty heads of state and government, the conference centred around the theme "African Education for the 21st Century: Constructing Resilient Education Systems to Enhance Access to Inclusive, Continuous, Quality, and Sustainable Education Tailored to Africa."

During his address to fellow leaders, the Mauritanian president expressed his appreciation for the selected theme, deeming it of "vital importance" to address the educational challenges facing the continent.