ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has praised South Africa’s longstanding contribution to the African Union’s peace, security, development, and integration agenda during talks with South Africa’s ambassador to Ethiopia and the AU.
According to a statement issued by the African Union on Monday, Youssouf received Nonceba Losi in Addis Ababa for discussions on key continental priorities and emerging challenges facing Africa.
The Chairperson commended South Africa for its continued commitment to advancing the AU’s objectives and supporting the continent’s shared aspirations under Agenda 2063.
Focus on migration and continental challenges
The meeting provided an opportunity for both leaders to exchange views on recent developments across the continent, including migration and other cross-border challenges affecting African states.
According to the AU, the discussions highlighted the importance of dialogue, constructive engagement, and responsible public discourse in addressing complex regional issues and advancing Africa’s collective priorities.
Migration remains one of the continent’s most pressing policy concerns, with African governments increasingly seeking coordinated approaches to displacement, labour mobility, border management, and humanitarian protection.
Support for AU archives digitisation
A key outcome of the discussions was South Africa’s commitment to support efforts aimed at preserving and digitising the African Union’s archives.
Youssouf welcomed the initiative, describing it as an important step toward safeguarding the institution’s historical legacy and strengthening its institutional memory.
The AU has, in recent years, prioritised the modernisation of its records and information systems to improve accessibility, transparency, and preservation of documents chronicling the organisation’s evolution and major continental decisions.
Officials noted that digitisation efforts will help ensure that historical records remain available to future generations, researchers, policymakers, and member states.
Recognition of AU leadership
Ambassador Losi also commended Youssouf’s leadership since assuming office as Chairperson of the AU Commission, acknowledging his efforts to advance the Union’s priorities across Africa.
The engagement comes as the AU continues to navigate a range of continental challenges, including peace and security concerns, economic integration, climate resilience, governance reforms, and implementation of flagship initiatives under Agenda 2063.