**The African Union Future Leaders Debate: Towards a United and Prosperous Africa**
The recent debate between the three candidates for the presidency of the African Union, Raila Odinga, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf and Richard Randriamandrato, highlighted the critical issues facing the African continent. Regional security, intra-African trade challenges and the need for reforms within the African Union were at the heart of the discussions held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
A highlight of the debate was the candidates’ call for the creation of two permanent seats for African nations on the United Nations Security Council. They stressed that this would allow for better representation of a continent that is predominantly made up of young people. Raila Odinga said this would be a matter of equity, given Africa’s 50-plus nations.
On regional security, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf stressed the importance of strengthening the resources of rapid intervention forces to reduce dependence on foreign aid. Richard Randriamandrato urged member states to come together to select Africa’s representatives to the Security Council. He also warned against foreign military bases, calling them archaic and potentially conflict-prone.
Furthermore, intra-African trade was identified as a key lever to boost the continent’s economic growth. Raila Odinga highlighted the potential of the African internal market to foster economic transformation through trade opportunities between African countries. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf proposed a payment clearing system to avoid losses from exchange rate fluctuations. Richard Randriamandrato highlighted the key role of regional economic blocs in facilitating trade across the continent.
Finally, the candidates committed to implementing reforms within the African Union to improve its effectiveness and mission. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf highlighted the financing challenges hindering these reforms, calling for a change in the situation. He stressed his willingness not to impose solutions on Member States, but to defend them with conviction.
In conclusion, this debate offered an overview of the candidates’ visions and priorities for the future of the African Union. In a context of complex challenges and changing dynamics, unity and regional cooperation emerge as essential pillars for building a united, prosperous and resilient Africa.