The Association of Women in the Media (ASWIM) has congratulated Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister on her historic election as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

In a statement signed by Mavis Kitcher, President of ASWIM noted that Madam Botchwey, “brings an exceptional wealth of experience, commitment, and vision to this distinguished role, becoming the first African woman and second woman of colour to hold this prestigious position.”

The statement said her election to that office highlighted the influence and potential of African women in global governance, marking a significant milestone for Ghana and a testament to the impactful contributions of women in international leadership.

Madam Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey comes to the position with an outstanding achievement and dedication to public service, diplomacy and women’s empowerment having served as Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister and Chief Diplomat which has significantly shaped Ghana’s international relations.

Madam Botchwey during her career had led Ghana’s delegation to the United Nations General Assembly on three occasions and was instrumental in Ghana’s election to the UN Security Council for 2019-2020 in 2018 she represented Ghana in signing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) agreement.

Throughout her tenure as Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Madam Botchwey exemplified outstanding leadership and advocacy for Ghana’s role on the world stage promoting regional security, economic growth, and international partnerships.

In her role as a legislator, she represented the people of Anyaa-Sowutuom from 2013-2021 and her contributions throughout the period have been recorded prominently in the parliamentary hansards, marking a significant milestone in a male-dominated domain, earning her the “best female politician” award at the 2018 Ghana Leadership Awards.

As a staunch advocate for gender equality, the Commonwealth General-Secretary elect, launched the Women in Diplomacy programme to empower young women in Ghana.

ASWIM noted that her sterling achievements have made her a role model for women's leadership and public service across Africa and the globe and have no doubt she would excel in the position to make the world a better place for humanity.

“The Commonwealth, representing 2.7 billion people across advanced economies and developing nations, including 33 small states and many island nations, stands to benefit from Hon. Botchwey’s leadership.”

 As the 7th Secretary-General, her dedication and expertise in diplomacy are inspirational to women in media and beyond. We are confident that her leadership will advance the Commonwealth’s mission of cooperation, peace-building, and sustainable development, fostering unity across its 56 member states.

ASWIM is an umbrella association for female journalists and media practitioners in Ghana committed to empowering women in media and advocating for equal representation and ethical media practices.