Ghana’s foreign minister since 2017, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has been appointed the new secretary-general of the Commonwealth, announced on the final day of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa. Botchwey, a former lawmaker and trained lawyer, becomes the second woman to hold this position in the Commonwealth’s history.

“I am truly humbled,” Botchwey said on social media, adding, “The work indeed lies ahead.” Her appointment comes at a time when discussions about reparations for the legacy of transatlantic slavery and colonialism were central to the summit, alongside the ongoing climate crisis.

As foreign minister, Botchwey has been a strong advocate for reparations, emphasizing that reparatory justice is not just about financial compensation but also addressing global challenges like climate change and economic resilience. This view was shared by the other candidates who ran for the secretary-general position, signaling a common sentiment within the Commonwealth to confront historical injustices.

Reparations dominated discussions at the summit, with heads of government issuing a communique supporting “discussions on reparatory justice” regarding the transatlantic slave trade. They called for a “meaningful, truthful, and respectful conversation” to create a more equitable future for member states.

The UK government has resisted paying direct reparations, but sources have suggested it may consider supporting alternative forms of reparatory justice, such as debt relief and restructuring financial institutions. Botchwey has expressed that the Commonwealth could help lead this dialogue, fostering a “common voice” among member states to address reparations and broader issues like climate change.

In addition to her advocacy for reparations, Botchwey has pushed for economic integration within the Commonwealth. She has supported efforts to draft a free trade agreement among member states and has played a leadership role in both the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Ghana’s term on the UN Security Council.

Botchwey succeeds Patricia Scotland, who has held the secretary-general role since 2016. The secretary-general position is nominated by Commonwealth leaders and is capped at two terms of four years each.

With Botchwey’s leadership, the Commonwealth is poised to address historical wrongs while working toward a more inclusive and resilient future.

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  Commonwealth Secretary General