During the Commonwealth Day celebration, Ghana’s Defence Minister Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah reiterated the country’s commitment to Commonwealth ideals. He emphasized democracy and unity, reflecting on significant achievements such as the upcoming election of Ghana’s first female Commonwealth Secretary-General. The celebration marked the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat and highlighted Ghana’s ongoing democratic journey.
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, Ghana’s Minister of Defence, reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to the principles of the Commonwealth, notably cooperation, inclusivity, and shared prosperity. He asserted that strength lies in unity and opportunity in diversity during the Commonwealth Day celebration, which included a flag-raising and tree-planting ceremony in Accra, following the theme “Together We Thrive.”
Commonwealth Day is celebrated annually on the second Monday of March, symbolizing the unity of 56 independent nations within the Commonwealth. The Minister represented Foreign Affairs Minister Mr. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa at the event, emphasizing that this year’s theme aligns with the Commonwealth’s mission to promote democracy and foster collaboration for peace and prosperity.
Dr. Omane Boamah remarked that Commonwealth Day is a day for reflecting on collective progress and recommitting to peace, democracy, and sustainable development across member nations. This year’s celebration was particularly notable as it commemorated the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat, an essential body for cooperation among member states.
He also reflected on Ghana’s pride in the anticipated assumption of Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey as the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth in April 2025, marking her as the first African woman in this position. This moment is significant for Ghana’s diplomatic legacy and international standing.
The Minister expressed confidence in Botchwey’s ability to succeed and urged all Commonwealth Member States to support her vision for a new era of progress. Additionally, he highlighted Ghana’s democratic achievements, such as the peaceful election of President John Dramani Mahama and the historic election of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, promoting gender representation in politics.
Dr. Omane Boamah thanked the Commonwealth Secretariat and Member States for their contributions to strengthening Ghana’s electoral processes through election observation and technical support. Madam Harriet Thompson, the British High Commissioner to Ghana, emphasized the importance of friendship within the Commonwealth family, reinforcing leaders’ commitment to diversity and unity during their recent assembly in Samoa.
Mr. John Apea, representing Commonwealth Secretary-General Madam Patricia Scotland, discussed the significance of Commonwealth solidarity and shared ideals amidst global challenges, reinforcing the collective strength of the organization.
Ghana’s reaffirmation of commitment to Commonwealth values underscores the importance of cooperation, inclusivity, and shared prosperity among nations. The recent Commonwealth Day celebration not only highlighted Ghana’s democratic progress but also anticipated a pivotal moment in its diplomatic legacy with the election of Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey as Secretary-General. The call for a united Commonwealth reflects a commitment to facing global challenges together while fostering gender representation and supporting democratic processes.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
