By Emmanuel Mandella

The African Union Commission has named former Somali Prime Minister, Dr. Abdiweli Mohamed Ali Gaas, as the Special Representative to South Sudan and Head of the African Union Liaison Office in Juba.

The appointment was officially announced on Sunday. 

Dr. Gaas replaces Ambassador Joram Biswaro of Tanzania, who has served in the role since 2016, following his appointment by former AU Chairperson, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma. 

A seasoned leader and economist, Dr. Abdiweli Gaas brings a wealth of diplomatic and governance experience. He served as Somalia’s Prime Minister between 2011 and 2012 and later as President of Punt land from 2014 to 2019, where he was credited for advancing infrastructure, agriculture, bilateral relations and institutional reforms.

In his new capacity, Dr. Gaas will spearhead the AU’s diplomatic efforts in South Sudan, work closely with IGAD, the United Nations, and other regional bodies to ensure the effective implementation of the peace process in South Sudan.

Welcoming the appointment, Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of the Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), described it as a decisive and hopeful move for South Sudan.

“On behalf of CEPO and with high respect, I extend heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency Dr. Abdiweli Muhammad Ali Gaas for his appointment,” Yakani said. “As a former head of government and a committed regional figure, Dr. Abdiweli brings immense experience and leadership at a time when South Sudan is preparing for critical elections in December 2026.”

Yakani also paid tribute to the outgoing AU envoy, Ambassador Dr. Biswaro, for his service and dedication to South Sudan during a difficult chapter in the country’s transition.

“We are one African community AU, EAC, and IGAD. Now more than ever, we must work collectively, genuinely, and constructively to move South Sudan from violence to peace,” he emphasized.

With the peace roadmap facing several implementation delays, Yakani called on the new AU envoy to prioritize building political will among the country’s leaders.

“We call on Dr. Abdiweli to work closely with our national leaders to foster political will and commitment that will lead to the creation of a conducive environment for elections,” Yakani stressed. “Without these efforts, the December 2026 elections risk becoming another trigger for conflict instead of a pathway to peace.”

CEPO reaffirmed its readiness to support the AU and other partners in guiding South Sudan toward a peaceful, inclusive, and democratic future.

Dr. Abdiweli Gaas, the incoming envoy

Dr. Abdiweli Gaas holds a PhD in Economics, with a watertight teaching experience, having lectured at key U.S. universities, including Niagara University and the University of Tennessee.

Gaas led Puntland and served in Somali during a crucial transitional period where advocated for federalism and reconciliation, playing a central role in institutional reform and regional peace building.

His blend of academic rigor, political experience, and diplomatic tact prepares him for the new role.