Closing a Chapter While Inspiring the Future Through Ambassador Sacko’s Work

Today marked a moment of reflection and celebration as AU-IBAR staff and Amb. Beyene Russom, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Eritrean Ambassador gathered to bid farewell to H.E. Ambassador Josefa Sacko, the outgoing African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE). The farewell gathering honored her remarkable contributions over the past eight years, highlighting the transformative impact she has had on Africa’s sustainable development agenda; including support to AU-IBAR.

AU-IBAR’s Director Dr. Huyam Salih acknowledged Ambassador Sacko’s unwavering commitment and visionary leadership, which have guided the development of key continental policies such as the Africa Blue Economy Strategy and the Animal Welfare Strategy for Africa. Key projects and initiatives she supported were outlined such as the recently launched Pan-African Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) Control Programme and the establishment of Centers of Excellence. She emphasized how AU-IBAR has significantly benefited from Ambassador Sacko’s stewardship, particularly in championing best practices and fostering collaborative resource mobilization for the sustainable management of Africa’s natural wealth. Dr. Huyam expressed deep gratitude and conveyed heartfelt best wishes, reaffirming that Ambassador Sacko will always have a home at AU-IBAR.

H.E. Ambassador Beyene Russom, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Eritrean Ambassador, highlighted Ambassador Sacko’s tenure as one marked by numerous transformative initiatives. He described her as a beacon of inspiration, whose ability to bring people together has left an indelible mark on the AU and its stakeholders.

Ambassador Sacko, in her own words, reflected on her journey and the milestones achieved under her leadership. She reiterated the importance of Africa owning its development agenda and protecting the existence of its institutions. She acknowledged the challenges faced by staff and the necessity of working closely with Regional Economic Communities (RECs) to ensure policy implementation at all levels. She also paid tribute to the former directors whose foundational work paved the way for these successes.

Throughout her tenure, Ambassador Sacko oversaw programs worth 142 million euros under AU-IBAR. As Ambassador Sacko embarks on her next chapter, the gathering served as a testament to the profound respect and admiration she has garnered. Her legacy of leadership, dedication, and vision will continue to shape Africa’s agricultural and blue economy landscapes for years to come.

Read on her great accomplishments over her years at AUC