President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has expressed pride in the election of Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey as General Secretary of the Commonwealth of Nations.
In a congratulatory message posted on X (formerly Twitter), the President underscored the significance of Hon. Botchwey’s new role.
In a historic achievement for Ghana and the Commonwealth, Ayorkor Botchwey, was elected as the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations.
Her election, marking her as the first Ghanaian and the 7th Secretary-General to lead the 56-member body, has been widely celebrated by Ghanaians and Commonwealth leaders alike.
President Akufo-Addo wrote, “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.”
“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,”
Having served as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Ayorkor Botchwey’s reputation as a diplomat and advocate for inclusive growth has been pivotal.
“For years, I have watched her serve Ghana, Africa, and the international community with unshakeable commitment and grace. Her work…is a testament to her devotion to bridging divides and building meaningful partnerships,” President Akufo-Addo shared. “She carries with her a vision of inclusivity and progress that I know will inspire the Commonwealth family and guide it towards a future of hope and unity,” the President added.
During the announcement, which took place at the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, the President thanked fellow Heads of State for their confidence in Ghana’s candidate.
He noted that n choosing her, the Commonwealth has placed its trust in a passionate advocate for shared values.
Akufo-Addo also extended a message of appreciation to the outgoing Secretary-General, Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, for her dedicated service.
“We express our sincere appreciation to the outgoing Secretary-General, the Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland, KC, for her outstanding service to the Commonwealth and its organisations. We wish her God’s blessings and the best of luck in all her future endeavours.”
President Akufo-Addo’s stressed his support for Hon. Botchwey’s new leadership and the brighter, more resilient Commonwealth that she will help to build.