17 February 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – During the 37th General Assembly of the African Union held today,
Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould El Ghazouani was elected as the new Chairperson of the organization for a one-year term.
Ghazouani, the 67-year-old and 9th President of Mauritania, brings a distinguished career in military and security affairs to the table. Since the 1970s, he has held critical positions, including Director General of the National Security Agency and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. Prior to his 2019 presidential election victory, he served as Minister of Defense from 2018 to 2019.
Ghazouani is recognized for overseeing a peaceful transfer of power in Mauritania’s post-colonial elections. His election as AU Chairperson comes after extensive consultations among member states. As the head of the AU, he will be responsible for representing the interests of the continent on the international stage and addressing critical issues facing African nations.
The specific priorities of Ghazouani’s chairmanship are yet to be announced. However, given his background and current regional challenges, potential areas of focus include security, economic development, and promoting continental unity.
