Djibouti endorses Egypt’s UNESCO candidate

Djibouti has officially endorsed Khaled El-Enany, Egypt’s candidate for Director-General of UNESCO, during a meeting between Presidents Abdelfattah Al-Sissi and Ismaïl Omar Guelleh. 

This support strengthens Africa’s united front behind El-Enany’s candidacy, already backed by the African Union.

The announcement follows the withdrawal of Gabonese candidate Noël Nelson Messone, further illustrating the continent’s commitment to presenting a single voice ahead of the October 2025 election.

Expressing gratitude, El-Enany emphasized the importance of a unified Africa and pledged to lead a more inclusive, transparent, and action-oriented UNESCO. “

The Organization must remain grounded in today’s global challenges and promote human development through education, culture, and dialogue,” he stated.

El-Enany’s campaign, launched in April 2023, has secured wide international support, including endorsements from the African Union, the Arab League, France, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Turkey, and Gabon. His candidacy reflects a shared vision of a UNESCO that fosters peace through cultural diversity and heritage preservation.