By Ajong Mbapndah L
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has appointed Dr. Yann Bedzigui as the new Chief of Staff of the African Union Commission in a move that signals the continued shaping of the AU’s new leadership team and institutional direction under the current administration.
The announcement, made from Addis Ababa on May 25, comes at a critical moment for the African Union as the continental body faces growing expectations on peace and security, institutional reforms, regional integration, and implementation of Agenda 2063 across member states.
In an official press release issued by the African Union Commission, the AU Chairperson described Dr. Bedzigui as a seasoned professional bringing extensive experience and distinguished service to the role.
“Dr Bedzigui brings to the position a wealth of experience and distinguished service,” the statement said, adding that he “will support the Chairperson in advancing the vision, priorities, and institutional objectives of the Commission.”
Dr. Bedzigui, a scholar and policy expert with a PhD in Political Science and International Relations from Université Panthéon-Assas, is widely known for his work and publications on African peace and security policy, conflict prevention, and regional dynamics on the continent. His appointment is expected to strengthen the strategic and policy coordination capacity of the AU Commission at a time when Africa is confronting multiple security, governance, and development challenges.
The appointment also reflects Chairperson Youssouf’s efforts to consolidate a team capable of navigating increasingly complex continental issues ranging from instability in parts of the Sahel and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo to economic integration efforts under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Since assuming office as Chairperson of the African Union Commission in March 2025, following his election earlier that year, Youssouf has emphasized institutional effectiveness, multilateral cooperation, and renewed continental diplomacy.
The AU Commission also used the occasion to pay tribute to the outgoing Chief of Staff, Ambassador Souef Mohamed El-Amine, for his contribution and leadership during his tenure.
“The Chairperson expresses profound appreciation and gratitude to the outgoing Chief of Staff, Ambassador Souef Mohamed El-Amine, for his dedicated service, steadfast commitment, and valuable contributions to the work of the Commission during his tenure,” the statement noted.
The Commission further commended Ambassador Souef Mohamed for his professionalism and leadership, wishing him continued success in his future endeavors. Souef, a veteran Comorian diplomat with extensive experience in African and international diplomacy, had previously served in senior peace and security assignments within the AU and United Nations systems.
Observers say the appointment of Dr. Bedzigui could inject fresh intellectual and strategic depth into the Chairperson’s office as the AU seeks to strengthen its institutional credibility and responsiveness to continental crises while pushing forward long-term development ambitions.
The Chief of Staff position within the African Union Commission is regarded as one of the institution’s most influential administrative and strategic offices, playing a central role in policy coordination, institutional management, diplomatic engagement, and implementation of the Chairperson’s agenda.
With Africa navigating shifting geopolitical dynamics, economic pressures, climate challenges, and evolving security threats, the appointment is likely to attract close attention from policymakers, diplomats, and regional stakeholders across the continent.
