Minister of Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has expressed strong confidence in Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, as she contests for the position of Secretary General of the Commonwealth.
Speaking to journalists in Accra on Friday, October 19, Madam Abubakar highlighted Botchwey's outstanding contributions to the country and her track record on various international platforms, positioning her as a formidable candidate for the prestigious role.
“The 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, scheduled for October 21 to 26 in Samoa, is a significant opportunity for Ghana. Our Foreign Affairs Minister, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, is contesting for the office of Commonwealth Secretary General, and we are confident she will bring it home as the first African female to hold that position,” Hon. Abubakar stated.
She emphasized Ghana’s influential role within the Commonwealth, which comprises 56 independent nations, mostly former British colonies, united by a shared history and a commitment to development across both industrialized and developing countries.
“Ghana has always been a formidable member of the Commonwealth, especially on the African continent, and Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has distinguished herself in service to our country and on the international diplomatic stage,” she added.
Madam Abubakar also noted that Botchwey’s candidacy is supported by her vision to address key global challenges such as health, climate resilience, economic transformation through increased trade and investment, and leveraging technology to create opportunities for youth.
“Her vision is clear, and there is no better candidate to champion these causes at the Commonwealth level than Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey,” she said.
The Minister of Information further revealed that President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo departed Ghana on Friday to attend the Commonwealth meeting in Samoa, where he will actively support Botchwey’s campaign.
“The entire government machinery is behind her, and we are proud to have our President leading the charge in supporting her bid,” she stated.
Reflecting on the significance of this opportunity, Abubakar expressed her excitement about the potential of having a Ghanaian serve as Secretary General of one of the most respected international organizations, after the United Nations.
“This opportunity means a lot not only to Ghana but to the entire African continent. It will inspire young women, especially in Ghana, to believe that their dreams are valid and that with hard work, they too can hold significant positions on the global stage.”
She also mentioned that she, along with other government officials, will be attending various meetings at the Commonwealth event.
“I will participate in a breakfast meeting focused on youth and sports, as well as other sectoral discussions, to ensure that we build strong networks and relationships that will benefit Ghana,” she said.
She stressed the importance of Botchwey’s candidacy for enhancing diplomatic relations and facilitating trade among Commonwealth nations.
“Having a Ghanaian leader at the helm of the Commonwealth will go a long way in advancing our international networks and strengthening ties with other member countries, whether in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, or elsewhere.”
The election of the Commonwealth Secretary General will be conducted by the heads of state during the meeting in Samoa.
"We are hopeful that Ghana will achieve this milestone with the election of Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, and it will be a proud moment for the country," she remarked.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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