Ayorkor Botchwey elected next Commonwealth Secretary-General

In a momentous achievement, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has been elected as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations. 

Her election, which took place during the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first Ghanaian and the second African to hold the distinguished position. The first African to hold the position was Chief Emeka Anyaoku of Nigeria from 1990 to 2000.

Ms Botchwey, 61, Ghana’s Foreign Minister for nearly eight years, will replace Baroness Patricia Scotland on April 1, 2025.

Ms Scotland, a British-Dominican, was first elected in 2016, and is completing her two-term tenure.

Ms Botchwey’s election signals not only a victory for Ghana but also highlights the nation’s growing influence within the global community.

The remarkable accomplishment has been celebrated widely in Ghana and across the Commonwealth, with high-profile leaders expressing pride in her new role and confidence in her abilities to lead the Commonwealth family.

She contested for the position with the Gambian Foreign Minister, Dr Mamadou Tangara, and Lesotho diplomat, former Trade Minister and Commonwealth Secretariat staffer, Joshua Setipa.

Based on the Commonwealth’s convention of regional rotation, Africa was due to provide a Secretary-General for the 56-member organisation headquartered in London.

Diplomacy, service

Ms Botchwey brings with her a wealth of experience in diplomacy, governance and international relations.

As Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration since 2017, she has played a vital role in advancing Ghana’s interests on the global stage, strengthening relationships with African nations and advocating the African continent’s representation in international affairs.

Under her leadership, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has significantly bolstered its diplomatic ties, positioning Ghana as a key player in the global dialogue on peace, security and sustainable development.

With her extensive background in diplomacy, Ms Botchwey has already laid out her vision for the Commonwealth, which focuses on inclusiveness, economic growth, and the promotion of peace and unity.

In her statement following the election, she expressed humility and gratitude for the trust placed in her by the Commonwealth leaders.

She affirmed her commitment to work closely with member states to strengthen ties, foster collaboration and address challenges facing the Commonwealth.“I’m 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,” she stated.

Her dedication to service, strong work ethic and diplomatic skills will be invaluable as she leads an organisation that represents about 2.5 billion people across the 56-member countries.

She takes the helm at a time when the Commonwealth is navigating complex global issues, from economic challenges and climate change to public health crises and social justice movements.

President Akufo-Addo

Following her election, President Akufo-Addo expressed immense pride and joy on X (formerly Twitter) on behalf of Ghanaians.

In his congratulatory message, he emphasised the strength of Ms Botchwey’s character and her dedication to service, which have elevated her as a prominent figure not only in Ghana but also across Africa and the international community.

He commended her contributions as Foreign Affairs Minister, describing her as a visionary leader who had dedicated her career to building partnerships and promoting unity.

“Today, I feel a deep sense of pride and joy in congratulating Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey on her election as the next and 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth,” the President stated. 

“As the first Ghanaian to hold this position, 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,” he added.

President Akufo-Addo also extended his gratitude to the Commonwealth Heads of Government who supported Ms Botchwey’s candidacy, interpreting their choice as a vote of confidence in Ghana’s values and commitment to global unity.

He also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Secretary-General, Ms Scotland, for her service to the Commonwealth and thanked her for her steadfast dedication.