Ghana’s Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has extended her gratitude to Commonwealth leaders after being appointed as the new Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
The announcement was made during the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2024), held in Apia, Samoa, on Friday, October 25.
In a post on her X (formerly Twitter) account shortly after her appointment was confirmed, Ayorkor Botchwey expressed her appreciation and commitment to the new role.
She acknowledged the responsibility ahead, vowing to lead the Commonwealth towards greater inclusivity and shared progress.
“I’m honoured and humbled by the trust of Commonwealth leaders. A lot of work lies ahead. But together, we shall work for a New Commonwealth that works for all its citizens,” the new Secretary-General wrote.
I’m honoured and humbled by the trust of Commonwealth leaders. A lot of work lies ahead. But together, we shall work for a New Commonwealth that works for all its citizens. https://t.co/ugJDjYj4Hf
— Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey (@AyorkorBotchwey) October 25, 2024
As she takes over from Patricia Scotland, Baroness Scotland of the United Kingdom, Ayorkor Botchwey has pledged to champion the core objectives of the Commonwealth, including enhancing democracy, promoting human rights, and fostering sustainable development across its member states.
Truly humbled by the overwhelming support of the Commonwealth Heads of Government in selecting me as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The work indeed lies ahead! pic.twitter.com/1VnkKf6XyR
— Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey (@AyorkorBotchwey) October 25, 2024
Ayorkor Botchwey’s predecessor also gladly passed on the baton to her on her handle on X, welcoming and wishing her well in her new role.
It is my honour to pass the baton to my dear sister, the Hon Shirley @AyorkorBotchwey, who will succeed me as the next Commonwealth Secretary-General.
She will be uniquely blessed, as I have been, to hold this office and serve our precious Commonwealth. pic.twitter.com/mYtErlsuyD
— Patricia Scotland KC (@PScotlandCSG) October 25, 2024
Ayorkor Botchwey’s selection has been met with commendation from Ghanaian and international communities, marking her as the second Ghanaian to hold the role since the establishment of the Commonwealth Secretariat.
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