New Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey Pledges to Advance Commonwealth Values in a Divided World
Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, former Ghanaian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, has officially assumed office as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, vowing to champion the organization’s core values amid escalating global tensions and shifting geopolitical alliances.
A Historic Appointment
Botchwey succeeds Patricia Scotland, concluding a nine-year tenure. Her appointment marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first African woman – and only the second African overall – to lead the 56-nation Commonwealth, representing a third of the world’s population and over a quarter of UN member states.
Addressing Global Challenges
In her inaugural speech at the Commonwealth Secretariat’s London headquarters on April 1, 2025, Botchwey acknowledged the unprecedented challenges facing the international community:
“The world we woke up to today is unlike any we have seen in our lifetimes. The consequences of lower economic growth, increased defence expenditures, and a frayed multilateralism will affect our pockets directly, increase unemployment and poverty, reduce social protection and weaken our resilience to shocks.”
She emphasized the Commonwealth’s unique position to drive positive change, stating: “For over 75 years, the Commonwealth has been a unique and powerful force for good. Now we must seize the moment to realise the transformation our societies seek.”
Strategic Priorities for Leadership
The new Secretary-General outlined three key focus areas for her tenure:
1. Empowering Women and Youth
Botchwey pledged to equip women and young people with essential skills and opportunities to thrive in an evolving global landscape.
2. Economic Revitalization
She committed to boosting trade, investment, and connectivity across Commonwealth nations, ensuring inclusive growth that leaves no country behind.
3. Climate Action
Declaring climate change as “the greatest challenge of our time,” Botchwey vowed to advocate for financial system reforms to support vulnerable member states.
A Vision for Unity
Reflecting on her historic appointment, Botchwey stated: “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 concluded with a call to action: “Let’s move forward with purpose, with courage, and with an unshakable commitment to a Commonwealth that truly thrives together.”
Born in Accra, Botchwey was officially appointed during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa on October 25, 2024.
This article summarizes an original report from RNA News. For complete details, please visit the original source.