President Akufo-Addo has lauded Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey on her election as the Commonwealth Secretary-General.

He highlighted her role in boosting Ghana’s international profile and legacy.

At a ceremony welcoming her back from the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, the President commended her achievements and reaffirmed Ghana’s strong support as she begins her new responsibilities.

“She has done a ‘yeoman’s’ job as foreign secretary, chairperson of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, and several other important international assignments have been very well delivered by this young lady.

“So, coming back here, I knew we would meet something like this and I am very happy that all of you have come out in your numbers and met her and congratulated her.

“Let us all stand together behind her and push her to do a very good job for our country. She now flies the flag of Ghana on the global stage in a way which has not been done before since our late revered diplomate Kofi Annan, the Secretary-General of the United States,” he stated.

The President encouraged Ghanaians to support her, stating,“Let us all stand united behind her and support her in this role. This is an opportunity for Ghana to impact the world stage significantly.”

Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey's selection as the first African woman to head the Commonwealth signifies a crucial turning point for Ghana's diplomatic standing.

She is set to officially take office on April 1, 2025, succeeding Patricia Scotland.