The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has extended his congratulations to Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey following her assumption of office as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth on April 3.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, April 5, Ablakwa described the appointment as a proud moment for Ghana and the African continent.
He affirmed his trust in her, stating, “Being the first African woman to occupy this prestigious office, we know she will continue to make Ghana and Africa proud.”
His remarks come as Madam Botchwey officially assumed office as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Nations, marking a historic moment for both Ghana and the African continent.
Her election to this prestigious role makes her the first African woman to lead the 56-member intergovernmental body, which is dedicated to fostering international cooperation, democracy, and development among member states.
Ayorkor Botchwey took over from Baroness Patricia Scotland, whose tenure ended in March 2025.
Before her appointment as Commonwealth Secretary-General, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey had a distinguished political and diplomatic career.