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Ghana's Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey elected as Commonwealth Secretary-General
Ghana's Foreign Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has made history by being elected as the first female African Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
This significant announcement was made at the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa.
As the second African to hold this prestigious position, after Chief Emeka Anyaoku of Nigeria, Ayorkor Botchwey brings a wealth of experience to the table.
Her impressive diplomatic career spans over two decades, with notable achievements such as leading Ghana's tenure at the UN Security Council and championing reforms within the ECOWAS Commission.
Ayorkor Botchwey's vision for the Commonwealth focuses on six key areas:
- Democracy: Strengthening democratic institutions and promoting human rights
- Commonwealth Values: Upholding shared values and principles among member states
- Trade and Investment: Harnessing the $2 trillion trade potential within the Commonwealth
- Youth, Education, Skills, Innovation, and Start-ups: Empowering the next generation
- Climate Change: Addressing the devastating impacts on small island developing states and vulnerable countries
- Effective Commonwealth Institution: Managing resources efficiently to achieve common goals.
With her proven leadership skills and dedication to international cooperation, Ayorkor Botchwey is poised to make a significant impact as Secretary-General.
Her election not only brings pride to Ghana but also underscores Africa's growing influence within the Commonwealth.
Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey expressed her gratitude and humility after being elected as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth in a post on her X account.
In her words, "I'm honoured and humbled by the trust of Commonwealth leaders. A lot of work lies ahead. But together, we shall work for a New Commonwealth that works for all its citizens."
"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!"
Source: Florence Kyei /Lead News Online
