Addis Ababa–
In a bold move towards promoting gender equity and inclusive leadership, the African Union (AU) has officially called on its Central Region Member States to nominate highly qualified female candidates for the prestigious post of Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM). The deadline for submission has been set for 6th May, 2025.
This strategic appeal is grounded in the AU’s Agenda 2063 vision of “The Africa We Want,” which emphasizes the need for transformative leadership, gender equality, and continental integration. The Commissioner role, which sits at the heart of the AU Commission’s economic mandate, is pivotal in shaping policies that drive trade facilitation, industrialization, tourism development, and the sustainable management of Africa’s rich mineral resources.
In the official communication, the AU emphasized that all interested female candidates must submit a comprehensive curriculum vitae alongside a vision statement, detailing how they intend to advance the Union’s transformative agenda and tackle pressing economic and developmental challenges across the continent.
The nomination process is being coordinated at the regional level, with only those candidates whose names are submitted by the Regional Dean considered eligible for selection. The African Union Commission has further specified that all nominations must be hand-delivered in sealed envelopes to the Office of the Legal Counsel by the deadline.
This development reflects the AU’s continuous commitment to elevating women into leadership positions and ensuring balanced representation in its top governance structures. The Commissioner for ETTIM plays a crucial role in championing economic progress and unlocking the continent’s full potential through innovation, trade integration, tourism growth, and industrial development.
As the continent faces both persistent and emerging economic challenges, the AU’s deliberate focus on empowering qualified African women to lead change sends a powerful message to member states and development partners alike — that Africa’s future must be shaped by the wisdom, vision, and leadership of all its people, regardless of gender.
Member States are encouraged to act promptly and decisively in nominating candidates who embody the spirit of excellence, integrity, and transformative vision necessary to take the continent to greater heights.
