The newly elected Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has outlined her vision for the organization.
Speaking at Kotoka International Airport, she highlighted the crucial role of youth in her agenda.
She acknowledged the resilience and diversity of member states as a unifying force among the 56 nations of the Commonwealth, describing this diversity as her inspiration.
As she officially takes office on April 1, 2025, Ayorkor Botchwey plans to prioritize education and create opportunities for skills training and innovation, noting that young people constitute 60% of the Commonwealth’s population.
Furthermore, she intends to focus on technological advancement and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into her initiatives.
“My vision is to leverage these strengths by promoting trade and ensuring education, skills training, and innovation for the large youth population across our Commonwealth.
“I will provide leadership to collaborate with member states and other multilateral institutions in addressing climate change, which poses a significant existential threat to our collective wealth.
I aim to harness opportunities for transformation and amplify our global voice. I will prioritize inclusive and effective decision-making through technology and AI to bridge gaps and elevate marginalized voices.”
Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey was elected Secretary-General on Saturday, October 26, during the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2024) in Apia, Samoa, making her the second female and first African to hold this position.
She returned to Ghana on Monday, October 28, at Kotoka International Airport, where she received a warm welcome from President Akufo-Addo, the Chief of Staff, and other dignitaries.
