The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, hosted H.E. Dr. Abdiweli Mohamed Ali (Gaas), former Prime Minister of Somalia and President of Puntland, and now serving as the African Union’s Special Representative and Head of Mission to South Sudan.
The high-level meeting, held at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, underscored the Union’s unwavering commitment to advancing peace and stability across the continent.
As earlier reported by Somali Stream in May, Dr. Abdiweli’s appointment marked a significant diplomatic milestone for the AU. Since assuming his duties, he has quickly become instrumental in steering one of the Union’s most important peace missions in Africa.
With an illustrious career that includes serving as Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation, and Prime Minister (2011–2012) under the Transitional Federal Government, Dr. Abdiweli brings a wealth of political and diplomatic experience to his current mandate.
Entrusted by the AU Commission Chairperson, his core mission is to promote inclusive national dialogue, reconciliation, and ensure the comprehensive implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
In his remarks, Dr. Abdiweli expressed deep appreciation for the confidence placed in him by the African Union and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting South Sudan’s journey toward lasting peace and nation-building. He emphasized the need for collective African solidarity in addressing the root causes of conflict and fostering durable political solutions.
H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf commended Dr. Abdiweli’s distinguished record of public service and statesmanship, expressing full confidence in his ability to engage all stakeholders with impartiality, integrity, and a results-oriented approach. The Chairperson reiterated the AU’s full support for the peace process in South Sudan and underlined the critical role of African leadership in resolving African challenges.
Dr. Abdiweli, one of Somalia’s most trusted envoys over the past decade, continues to embody the spirit of Pan-African service. His appointment reflects the African Union’s recognition of experienced and capable leadership to advance the continent’s peace and security agenda amid complex regional dynamics and rising expectations.