Ghana’s Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has been elected Secretary-General of the Commonwealth during the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in Apia, Samoa.
Her victory followed a highly competitive election, where Botchwey faced off against Lesotho’s former Trade Minister, Joshua Phoho Setipa, and Gambia’s Foreign Minister, Mamadou Tangara.
“Today at #CHOGM2024, Commonwealth Heads of Government have selected the Hon Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, currently the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana, as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth,” the Commonwealth announced on X on Friday, October 25.
Expressing her gratitude, Botchwey posted 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.”
Botchwey will succeed Baroness Patricia Scotland, whose second term concludes later this year. At 61, Botchwey’s appointment marks a significant milestone in her diplomatic career, which has spanned nearly two decades.
Since becoming Ghana’s Foreign Minister in 2017, she has implemented forward-thinking policies that have elevated Ghana’s global diplomatic profile. Her strategic and visionary leadership has earned her wide respect, both within Ghana and on the international stage.
During her tenure, Botchwey has achieved critical advancements within Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration. Among her notable achievements is the establishment of the Foreign Service Institute (FSI), a key initiative that has enhanced training and working conditions for Ghanaian diplomats. The FSI equips diplomats to address complex international issues effectively, underscoring Botchwey’s commitment to raising Ghana’s diplomatic standards.
She has also championed the digitalization of consular and passport services, streamlining processes that are essential to Ghanaians both domestically and abroad. This transformation has been particularly beneficial to the diaspora, who now enjoy more accessible and efficient services. Botchwey’s initiatives have set new benchmarks for public service within Ghana’s foreign ministry.
Internationally, her profile has surged, especially during Ghana’s recent tenure on the United Nations Security Council. Botchwey has been a visible advocate for Ghana’s foreign policy, participating in pivotal global discussions on peace, security, and sustainable development. Her efforts have reinforced Ghana’s influence on the world stage and solidified her reputation as a dedicated champion of African interests.
As the new Secretary-General, Botchwey is expected to bring her strategic vision and commitment to the 56-member intergovernmental organization. Her leadership is anticipated to focus on collaboration, addressing critical global challenges, and enhancing the Commonwealth’s role, especially in supporting smaller and developing nations within the bloc.
