By Admore Mbonda
Egypt — In a significant development for African diplomacy, anthropological researcher Hassan Ghazaly, founder of the Pan African initiative “AfroMedia,” offered warm congratulations to Ambassador Mohamed Idris on his recent appointment as the Permanent Representative of the African Union to the United Nations and Head of the African Mission in New York.
This milestone marks a pivotal moment for Egypt’s diplomatic reputation on the global stage.
Ghazaly emphasized that Ambassador Idris’s selection reflects the profound trust in Egyptian diplomacy, both within Africa and internationally.
He noted that this appointment is not only a recognition of Idris’s extensive experience in multilateral negotiations but also a testament to Egypt’s historical commitment to African issues.
“This appointment is a culmination of a distinguished diplomatic career,” Ghazaly remarked, highlighting Idris’s previous roles, including his tenure as Egypt’s Permanent Representative to the UN and Ambassador to Ethiopia.
The initiative’s founder underscored Egypt’s long-standing role in advocating for African voices at international forums.
He recalled that during the era of national liberation, Cairo was instrumental in facilitating the participation of African leaders in UN discussions, allowing them to present the struggles of their peoples against colonialism. These leaders have since become icons of independence across the Global South.
Ghazaly further noted that Idris’s appointment is a strategic milestone that enhances the collaboration between the African Union and the United Nations, paving the way for more effective joint action on peace, security, and development across the continent.
He stated, “This strengthens the empowerment of African competencies within international organizations and fosters greater cooperation.”
The timing of this appointment coincides with the United Nations’ 80th anniversary, a significant occasion that underscores Egypt’s foundational role in the UN.
Ghazaly pointed out that Egypt has been at the forefront of shaping international relations since the organization’s inception, emphasizing its ongoing commitment to African unity and progress.
In addition to his diplomatic achievements, Ambassador Idris is also a member of the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund’s Independent High-Level Advisory Board, appointed in 2024 by the UN Secretary-General. His extensive background positions him uniquely to address the challenges facing Africa today.
The “AfroMedia” initiative, founded in February 2021, operates under the slogan “The Voice of Egypt . . . The Voice of Africa,” reinforcing its mission to enhance media relations across the continent.
The initiative aims to develop the skills of journalists and media professionals, ensuring they portray a realistic image of Africa while fostering cooperation among African communities.
As Ghazaly concludes, the future of African diplomacy looks promising with leaders like Ambassador Idris at the helm, driving forward initiatives that advocate for the continent’s interests on the global stage.
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