This historic moment marks Africa's turn to lead the 56-member organisation, which has played a crucial role in fostering international cooperation since its formation in 1949. The election, set to take place in Apia, Samoa, from 21 to 25 October 2024, will see contenders from The Gambia, Ghana, and Lesotho compete for the top job.
In a significant milestone for Africa, the next Secretary General of the Commonwealth will be chosen from among three highly qualified candidates from the continent. This decision underscores the region's growing influence and the Commonwealth's commitment to diverse leadership. The candidates are Dr Mamadou Tangara, Gambia's Foreign Minister; Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey from Ghana; and Senator Joshua Septiba from Lesotho.
Dr Mamadou Tangara, The Gambia
Dr Tangara currently serves as Gambia's Foreign Minister. His extensive experience in international relations and diplomacy positions him as a strong contender. Known for his strategic vision and commitment to fostering global partnerships, Dr Tangara previously served as Gambia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2013 to 2016 and again from 2017 to 2018. However, Dr Tangara was also a trained Journalist who served as editor in The Point Newspaper and also the French columnist for the paper. He aims to bring a fresh perspective to the Commonwealth's leadership.
Dr Tangara has chaired on numerous occasions the African Group at the United Nations in New York. He presided over the memorial meeting for the late Nelson Mandela. Dr Tangara served as Chairman of the University of The Gambia Governing Council; President of Alliance Franco-Gambienne and Honorary Ambassador of the Brabant Wallon, Region (Belgium). He is also an eminent member of the Diplomatic Foundation of the Kingdom of Morocco. Dr Tangara is a member of Board of trustees at the Qatari Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Centre (ROLACC) in Doha. He also served in various ministries in The Gambia.
Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Ghana
A lawyer by profession, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey has an impressive political career. She served as Ghana's Deputy Foreign Minister in 2017 and is currently the Minister of Foreign Affairs Integration and a Member of Parliament. Her legal expertise and experience in trade and international relations make her a formidable candidate. Hon. Botchwey's candidacy highlights her dedication to promoting economic development and legal reforms within the Commonwealth.
Senator Joshua Septiba, Lesotho
Senator Joshua Septiba is the Senior Director of Strategy, Portfolio Partnership, and Digital Division at the Commonwealth Secretariat. His candidacy is backed by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), reflecting strong regional support. Senator Septiba's strategic leadership and digital expertise are key assets that he brings to the table, aiming to modernize and strengthen the Commonwealth's digital infrastructure and strategic initiatives.
Election
The election will take place in Apia, Samoa, a country with a rich history of independence and international cooperation. Gaining its independence from New Zealand in 1962, Samoa became the first Pacific Island nation to join the Commonwealth in 1970. Located south of the equator in the Pacific Ocean, Samoa's selection as the host for this significant election underscores its historical and geopolitical importance within the Commonwealth.
As the Commonwealth looks towards its future, the election of the next Secretary General from Africa marks a critical step in promoting diverse leadership and inclusive growth. The candidates from The Gambia, Ghana, and Lesotho each brings unique strengths and visions to the Commonwealth, setting the stage for an exciting and transformative election.
It would be recalled that last Friday, Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo made a special visit to The Gambia to appeal to President Adama Barrow's support for the Ghanaian candidate, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey. However, President Barrow made it clear that Dr Mamadou Tangara, Gambia's Foreign Minister, would not withdraw from the race. Thus, it is evident that Dr Tangara will be among the three contenders for the coveted position in October 2024, with two candidates from West Africa and one from Southern Africa.
