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Ayorkor Botchwey’s rise to top of Commonwealth, a major feat for Ghanaian diplomac
Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey
It was a great moment to savour on Monday when hundreds of Ghanaians welcomed Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, the newly elected Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
Her arrival momentarily halted operations at the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) when she stepped out from the plane in the company of President Akufo-Addo.
Among the large crowd to welcome her were representatives of the Ga Mantse, Nii Teiko Tsuru II, Ministers of State, Members of Parliament, New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporters and family members.
Addressing the crowd, the newly elected Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Ms Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, has promised to provide the needed leadership to combat climate change which presents a clear existential threat to all.
That, she hopes to achieve by working closely with member states and other multilateral institutions.
“I shall harness opportunities for transformation and enhance our global voice,” she stated.
The exercise was held in Apia, Samoa where she was elected as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.
She pledged to build on the work which had been done by the staff of the Secretariat and their partners which had made it possible for the Commonwealth to open new chapters in the shared journey towards deepening democracy, peace, prosperity and economic progress.
The Secretary-General elect also said the Commonwealth with 56 countries had a combined population of 2.7 billion people, with 60 per cent being young people, with 33 out of the 56 being small islands developing states and small states, stressing that, “It is diverse and I’m inspired by the resilience of our member states. We come from different nations and cultures, but we share a Commonwealth of values.”
Additionally, she said her vision was to build on these strengths, promote trade and ensure education, skills training, development and innovation for the teeming numbers.
The election was held at the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa, held on October 21-26, 2024.
Ms Botchwey contested against Joshua Setipa of Lesotho and Dr Mammadou Tangara of the Gambia.
This makes Ms Botchwey the first African woman and Second African national to hold this prestigious position.
She would succeed Baroness Patricia Scotland of the United Kingdom on April 1, 2025 embarking on a five year term as a Secretary-General.
Ms Botchwey brings to the role an impressive background as a lawyer, diplomat, and communication professional.
She has served as Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration for eight years during which she led Ghana’s notable two-year tenure on the UN Security Council.
Her service includes chairing the ECOWAS Council of Ministers for two terms (2020-2022), four terms as a legislator (2004- 2020), and membership in the ECOWAS parliament.
In campaigning for the position, Ms Botchwey proposed six areas to reposition the organisation to respond to the expectations of the 2.7 billion people across the Commonwealth for a decent and fulfilling life.
These were to enhance democracy; strengthen Commonwealth values and realise the democratic dividend; and increase trade and investment cooperation.
The rest are promoting youth, education, skills, innovation and startups; enhancing advocacy in mitigating the impact of climate change, especially on small Island developing states and small states; as well as effectively managing resources for an effective Commonwealth institution.
President Akufo-Addo described Ms Botchwey’s election as an honour that required the support and prayers of all Ghanaians.
Ms Botchwey, he noted, was the first African woman to lead in the history of the organisation, stressing that it was not going to be an easy task because of where we are in human history, with a lot of difficulties ahead.
“But I have absolutely no doubt that you have the qualities necessary to enable you to succeed as Secretary General of the Commonwealth,” President Akufo-Addo stated.
President Akufo-Addo further noted that it was the qualities of competence, hard work, diligence, honesty, and of commitment that drew the massive global support for Ms Botchwey’s candidature for the prestigious office.
“She’s done a yeoman’s job for us as Foreign Secretary. Foreign Secretary, Chairperson of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, and several other important international assignments have been very well delivered by this… I still call her a young lady,” he said.
“Let’s 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 since our late, revered diplomat, Kofi Annan, who was Secretary General of the United Nations,” he concluded.
Ms Botchwey has since her election received congratulatory messages as well as well-wishes from friends around the world.
The well-wishers included President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, AU High Representative for Silencing the Guns in Africa, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and outgoing Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland.
President Akufo-Addo, in a Facebook post, praised Ms Botchwey’s character and dedication to service. Ms Botchwey was her deputy when he served as Foreign Minister in the President J.A Kufour-led government.
“For years, I have watched her serve Ghana, Africa and the international community with unshakeable commitment and grace,” he stated.
The President expressed confidence that her leadership would guide the Commonwealth toward “a future of hope and unity.”
Vice President, Bawumia, took to social media to share his congratulations, writing: “Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, I am happy with the news about your election as the new Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. Congratulations on making Ghana proud. Keep shining, and I know you will excel as always.”
According to a Ghana News Agency (GNA) report, Dr Chambas described her election as “a victory for Ghanaian diplomacy.”
Speaking from an AU Retreat in Abidjan, he emphasised that this achievement represents not just personal success but also recognition of African women’s capabilities.
Having worked on Ms Botchwey’s campaign in the Caribbean and Pacific Island countries, he expressed particular satisfaction with the outcome.
Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, through his adviser on Information and Strategy, highlighted Ms Botchwey’s extensive career in Public Administration and Foreign Affairs as perfect qualifications for the role.
He expressed optimism about working with her to advance the Commonwealth’s vision and strengthen intra-commonwealth trade, particularly emphasising support for an African bid for permanent representation at the UN Security Council.
The outgoing Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, warmly welcomed her successor in a social media post, stating: “It is my honour to pass the baton to my dear sister… She will be uniquely blessed, as I have been, to hold this office and serve our precious Commonwealth.”
By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu
In a music landscape often defined by trends and tempo, George Nii Odai Oliver widely known as DJ Rev stands out as a man on a mission.
More than just a DJ, he is a minister, mentor, and youth advocate who has found a unique calling at the intersection of sound and spirituality.
Beyond the decks, DJ Rev is a devoted husband and a committed servant of God.
His life is anchored in purpose, with a deep passion for youth development. As the Technical Director at Christ for Youth International (CYI), a global youth ministry, he plays a significant role in shaping young lives, not only through words but also through music.
His journey in ministry began early, including his role as a founding member of the Ambassadors Christian Rap Group, where he first explored the power of music as a tool for transformation.
The name ‘DJ Rev’ derived from ‘Reverend,’ reflects both his spiritual identity and his mission to ignite atmospheres much like revving an engine with high-energy gospel music.
For him, every performance goes beyond entertainment; it becomes a moment of worship, revival, and connection with God.
His journey into DJing started from a fascination with music and technology during his younger years in Ghana.
Drawn to the ability of DJs to influence mood and unite people, he identified a gap in the Christian music space, which was someone who could seamlessly blend urban sounds with gospel messages. Starting from small church events and youth programmes, DJ Rev gradually honed his craft into what he now describes as a full-fledged calling.
Like many success stories, his path was not without challenges; he had limited access to equipment, skepticism about gospel DJing, and the difficulty of balancing ministry with performance all tested his resolve.
Yet, through persistence, faith, and support from mentors and the Christian community, he rose above these obstacles. Borrowing equipment, learning on the job, and staying grounded in prayer became part of his journey.
A defining moment in his career came when he realised that DJing was more than a passion; it was ministry.
Witnessing lives being transformed during his sets, seeing people move from dancing into deep worship, and watching young talents he mentored flourish affirmed his purpose.
DJ Rev’s style is best described as high-energy, spirit-led, and versatile. He effortlessly blends hip-hop, Afrobeats, dancehall, reggae, and urban gospel into seamless mixes that resonate with diverse audiences.
His signature approach is what he enthusiastically calls ‘Energyyyy! saying it is not just about hype, but about creating moments that touch both body and soul.
What sets him apart in Ghana’s DJ industry is his unwavering commitment to ministry-first performances. While many DJs focus solely on entertainment, DJ Rev uses his platform to create spaces where faith and music coexist powerfully. His technical expertise, drawn from his role in ministry, combined with his passion for mentorship, gives him a distinctive edge.
Over the years, he has witnessed significant growth in Ghana’s DJ industry, with increased recognition, technological advancement, and global influences such as Amapiano shaping the soundscape.
Notably, he has contributed to pushing gospel music into mainstream spaces, particularly through his popular Amapiano Gospel mixes.
Among his most memorable performances are events like Oasis Gathering, Sound Fest, and Saved to Serve platforms where music transcended performance into powerful spiritual encounters.
“These are moments that define success, lives touched, hearts uplifted, and faith renewed,” DJ Rev stated
Away from the spotlight, he embraces a quieter, more reflective life. He enjoys spending time with family, mentoring young people, engaging in ministry work, and pursuing simple hobbies like gardening and DIY projects.
For him, a perfect day off includes moments of prayer, meaningful conversations, and peaceful retreats, often in serene locations like Cape Coast or the Volta Region.
Despite his achievements, DJ Rev remains grounded. He acknowledges the challenges he has faced, ranging from limited resources to balancing ministry and career, but credits his resilience to faith, community support, and a clear sense of purpose.
These experiences have taught him invaluable lessons about perseverance, humility, and authenticity.
Looking ahead, DJ Rev aims to expand his ministry through music both locally and internationally, release more projects, mentor emerging talents, and further establish gospel DJ culture in Ghana. His ultimate desire is to be remembered as a pioneer who brought revival through music, blending excellence with unashamed faith.
To young aspiring DJs, his message is clear: master your craft, stay consistent, build character, and never lose sight of your purpose.
By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu
Entertainment
Amb. Prince Kojo-Hilton’s international mission signals new era for creative industry development
Between October 2025 and April 2026, a significant creative industry mission unfolded across Brazil, led by Ghanaian visual artist, production designer, and Pan-African Art Ambassador, Prince Kojo-Hilton.
What began as an invitation to contribute to creative education quickly evolved into a far-reaching engagement spanning academic institutions, government bodies, global platforms, and community initiatives.
More than a professional visit, the mission positioned itself as a structured intervention aimed at addressing one of the most pressing gaps within the global creative sector, the disconnect between education and industry practice.
At the centre of this engagement was a clear focus on capacity building. Working with the Zion School of Entertainment in Rio de Janeiro, Kojo-Hilton delivered a masterclass in Art Direction and Scenic Design during Zion Creative Week.
The immediate impact of the session prompted an expansion of the masterclass programme into a broader, multi-campus engagement, extending its reach to a wide network of students and emerging professionals.
His approach departed from traditional classroom instruction. Instead of theory-driven lectures, participants were introduced to practical, industry-based processes, including visual storytelling systems, production design methodologies, and the professional discipline required to operate within global creative industries.
The result was a shift in how students engaged with their craft, moving from passive learning to active, experience-driven development.
Beyond academic institutions, the mission extended into diplomatic and governmental spaces. At the Ghana Embassy in Brazil in Brasília, Kojo-Hilton engaged in strategic discussions with Ghana’s Ambassador to Brazil, Nii Amasah Namoale.
The discussions centered on long-term collaboration between Ghana and Brazil within the creative arts sector, with a focus on education, exchange programmess, and institutional partnerships.
This engagement progressed further at the National Congress of Brazil, where he was introduced to policymakers and cultural leaders, including Brazil’s Minister of Culture, Margareth Menezes.
His presence and work were formally acknowledged, reflecting growing recognition of the role creative professionals can play in national development and cultural diplomacy.
On the global stage, Kojo-Hilton represented Ghana at the World Forum of Favelas 2025, where his contributions to creative community development were recognised with an international award.
The forum provided a platform to present models that integrate art, education, and social impact, reinforcing the value of structured creative initiatives in community transformation.
A key outcome of the mission was the international expansion of the Film Craft Expo, an initiative founded by Kojo-Hilton to explore the art, science, and business of film-making and theatre.
Interest from multiple countries has positioned the platform as a potential global model for creative industry engagement, bridging the gap between emerging talent and professional practice.
Academic collaborations also formed a critical component of the mission.
At the University of Brasília, discussions explored interdisciplinary opportunities connecting art, science, and environmental innovation. Additional engagements with institutions such as Casa das Artes de Laranjeiras focused on curriculum development, artist residencies, and production-based training systems designed to better prepare students for industry demands.
While institutional engagement remained central, the mission maintained a strong connection to community impact. Workshops conducted in local communities, including Maricá, emphasised the role of art as a tool for empowerment, identity formation, and social transformation.
A significant part of his engagement in Maricá included a cultural and social contribution through the donation of a painting to the House of Immigrants.
The artwork serves as a permanent symbolic gesture of identity, resilience, and shared human experience, reflecting his commitment to using art as a tool for cultural connection and community memory within the city.
Participation in cultural events such as Rio Carnival further highlighted the importance of preserving cultural heritage while positioning it within a global context.
One of the most forward-looking outcomes of the mission is the development of the Global Visual Arts for Screen and Stage initiative.
The platform is designed to integrate visual arts, film, theatre, fashion, and technology into a unified system that supports training, collaboration, and industry growth.
By addressing fragmentation within the creative sector, the initiative aims to create sustainable pathways for employment, innovation, and institutional development.
Across all engagements, a consistent message emerged, the global creative industry is evolving, and there is an increasing demand for structured, experience-driven education.
Institutions are no longer seeking inspiration alone; they are seeking systems that can translate creativity into measurable economic and social impact.
Following six months of sustained engagement across Brazil, the results are evident. New partnerships are being explored, institutions are opening pathways for collaboration, and there is growing recognition of the role creative industries can play in national and international development.
The mission has not only strengthened cultural and creative ties between Ghana and Brazil, but has also positioned Kojo-Hilton within a broader global conversation on the future of creative industry development.
As he continues to expand his work across continents, he remains open to collaboration with universities, film schools, theatre institutions, visual arts institutions, cultural organizations, and governments seeking to invest in structured creative growth.
He also facilitated a focused workshop on Talent Discovery and Nurturing with immigrants, centered on identifying hidden creative potential and providing practical guidance for personal and professional development.
The session emphasised empowerment through creativity, encouraging participants to recognise their abilities and explore new pathways within the creative industries.
Together, these contributions reinforced his broader mission of using art not only as a professional practice but as a meaningful instrument for inclusion, transformation, and social impact.
In reflection, he expresses profound gratitude to God for the opportunity to undertake this journey and for the grace that made every step possible. From Ghana to Brazil and back, he acknowledges the divine protection, guidance, and favour that ensured safe travels and the mission’s successful execution.
The experience stands not only as a professional milestone but also as a testament to the power of faith, dedication, and purpose.
His guiding philosophy remains clear and unwavering, saying “The only thing that I am a slave to is my passion.”
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
