On Saturday, October 19, 2024, President Nana Akufo-Addo departed from Accra to Samoa in the South Pacific to participate in the 27th Commonwealth Heads of State and Government Meeting. The event, scheduled from Monday, October 21, to Thursday, October 26, 2024, will bring together leaders from 56 Commonwealth nations to elect a new Secretary-General.
Ghana’s Minister for Regional Integration and Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, is one of three candidates vying for the prestigious role. She is competing against candidates from The Gambia and Lesotho in the election for the next Commonwealth Secretary-General.
Speaking to the media, the Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, expressed confidence in Ms. Botchwey’s candidacy. She highlighted Ghana’s significant role within the Commonwealth and emphasized that Ms. Botchwey’s extensive experience in international diplomacy positions her as a strong contender.
“Over the years, Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has distinguished herself in various committees within the diplomatic arena. She has been a strong voice for developing nations and has consistently championed trade and investment on the African continent,” Madam Abubakar stated.
She further noted that Ms. Botchwey’s vision includes driving climate resilience, fostering economic transformation through increased trade, and leveraging technology to create opportunities for youth. The Information Minister expressed hope that Ms. Botchwey would secure the historic position of being the first African female Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
In Samoa, President Akufo-Addo will actively lobby and campaign for Ms. Botchwey, seeking the support of other Commonwealth leaders. The election is a significant event, and Ghana remains hopeful that its candidate will emerge victorious.
The Commonwealth meeting will also serve as a platform for member states to strengthen multilateral relations and foster trade and investment opportunities. In addition, Madam Abubakar shared that she would attend various discussions, including key breakfast meetings focused on youth and sports.
The government believes Ms. Botchwey’s bold step will inspire many women, particularly in Africa, and her potential leadership will bring new energy to the Commonwealth’s efforts to address global challenges.
