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Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has been elected as the Commonwealth’s seventh Secretary-General, making history as the first Ghanaian to lead the 56-nation organisation.
President Nana Akufo-Addo expressed pride in Botchwey’s election, lauding her as a leader of “unshakeable commitment and grace,” with a record of service to Ghana, Africa, and the global community.
“Today, I feel a deep sense of pride and joy in congratulating Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey on her election,” Akufo-Addo wrote on Facebook. “Her selection speaks to the strength of her character and her dedication to service, as well as to the esteem in which our nation, Ghana, is held amongst her peers.”
Botchwey’s diplomatic career spans nearly two decades, beginning as deputy minister for foreign affairs, trade, and information under President John Kufuor. Serving as Ghana’s Foreign Minister since 2017, she has been instrumental in elevating Ghana’s role on the world stage, notably during the country’s tenure on the UN Security Council from 2021 to 2023. During this period, she led the passage of Resolution 27/19, securing UN funding for Africa-led peace operations—a groundbreaking achievement in African security policy.
Reflecting on her election, Botchwey shared on X, “Truly humbled by the overwhelming support of the Commonwealth Heads of Government in selecting me as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The work indeed lies ahead!”
President Akufo-Addo further emphasised Botchwey’s commitment to the Commonwealth’s mission of unity, expressing confidence that she would guide the organization “towards a future of hope and unity.” He thanked outgoing Secretary-General Patricia Scotland for her service, and extended appreciation to Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata’afa for hosting the historic event.
Botchwey’s leadership extends beyond Ghana, as she previously chaired the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, promoting democratic governance and regional stability. Her advocacy for the “Year of Return” initiative in 2019, which commemorated 400 years since the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, has strengthened ties between Africa and the Caribbean, marking a significant milestone in diaspora relations.
Ghana now celebrates Botchwey’s new role in the Commonwealth, with President Akufo-Addo noting his confidence in her ability to shape a “brighter, more resilient Commonwealth…rooted in the values we cherish.”
Source: Daily Mail GH
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