The Commonwealth Heads of Government have selected Ghana’s Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey as the incoming Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, a 56-member association led by Britain’s King Charles. The announcement was made on Saturday, the final day of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, attended by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
In a statement expressing her gratitude, Botchwey said, “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!”
The week-long summit, held in the Pacific Island nation, brought together representatives from member states, many of which have historical ties to the British Empire. Key issues discussed included the lingering impacts of colonial slavery and the existential threat of climate change—pressing concerns for many small and developing Commonwealth nations.
Botchwey’s appointment signals a commitment to address these challenges, as she takes on the role of guiding the Commonwealth through evolving global issues. The former Ghanaian foreign minister emphasized that the work ahead is substantial, as the Commonwealth continues to advocate for unity and progress among its diverse members.
