Former Tanzanian president Kikwete appointed AU High Representative for Horn of Africa and Red Sea
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mr. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has appointed former Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, as High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.
In this capacity, Kikwete will support the AU's efforts to address the complex political, peace and security dynamics across the region, a statement on Wednesday by the AU said.
His mandate will include 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 statement said 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”.
It said 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,” the statement said.
-0- PANA MA 26March2026
