Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey assumes role as Secretary-General of Commonwealth
The former Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has officially taken office as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
She has committed to promoting the values enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter, particularly in a world increasingly defined by rising tensions and shifting global alliances.
In an official statement from the Commonwealth Secretariat, it was announced that Madam Botchwey, who succeeds Patricia Scotland, is the first African woman and only the second African to lead the 56-member organization.
During her address at the Commonwealth Secretariat's headquarters in London on April 1, the new Secretary-General emphasized the critical role the Commonwealth plays in tackling global economic and political challenges.
“The world we live in today is unlike any we have seen before,” she stated, highlighting the implications of economic downturns, increased defence expenditures, and weakened multilateralism on employment, poverty, and social protection.
She emphasised that the Commonwealth’s long-standing values—democracy, good governance, peace, human rights, and equal opportunity—remain vital in responding to these challenges.
Outlining her strategic vision for the Commonwealth, Madam Botchwey prioritised three key areas: empowering women and young people with essential skills and opportunities, revitalising trade and investment to drive inclusive growth, and strengthening climate action to support vulnerable member states.
She reaffirmed her commitment to modernising the Commonwealth through innovative partnerships that respond effectively to the needs of member nations.
Reflecting on her appointment at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa on October 25, 2024, Madam Botchwey expressed gratitude for the trust placed in her leadership.
“It is a great honour to be the first African woman to serve as Secretary-General. No matter where in the Commonwealth you come from, this path is open to you,” she stated.
She urged Commonwealth nations to move forward with shared purpose and commitment to prosperity for all.
The Commonwealth represents a third of the global population and over a quarter of the United Nations’ membership.
