ADDIS ABABA — The African Union (AU) has appointed former Tanzanian President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete as its High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, a region of strategic importance and ongoing political and security challenges.
The appointment was announced on 25 March 2026 by H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission. In this role, Kikwete will lead the AU’s efforts to address complex peace and security dynamics across the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor.
His mandate includes advancing preventive diplomacy, facilitating inclusive political dialogue, promoting confidence-building among stakeholders, and strengthening regional cooperation mechanisms to foster sustainable peace and stability. Kikwete will work closely with regional bodies and international partners, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the East African Community (EAC), the League of Arab States, and the United Nations, ensuring coordinated and effective interventions.
“The experience, leadership, and wisdom of President Kikwete will make a significant contribution to supporting countries in the region and enhancing the effectiveness of regional and international mechanisms in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity,” said AU Commission Chairperson Youssouf.
The Horn of Africa and Red Sea region remains a key geopolitical hotspot, with ongoing conflicts in Sudan and Somalia, as well as regional tensions linked to trade and security. AU officials say Kikwete’s appointment is a strategic move to strengthen diplomatic engagement and conflict resolution efforts.
Kikwete served as President of Tanzania from 2005 to 2015 and has previously held senior leadership positions within the AU, including as Chairperson of the Union. His new role underscores the AU’s commitment to coordinated regional action in addressing security, political, and economic challenges in the Horn of Africa and Red Sea corridor.