President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo departed Accra on Saturday for Samoa in the South Pacific to attend the 27th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The summit, scheduled from October 21 to 26, will bring together 56 member states to elect the next Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.

Ghana's Minister for Regional Integration and Foreign Affairs, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, is one of three candidates vying for the top position, competing against representatives from The Gambia and Lesotho.

During a media briefing in Accra on Saturday, Information Minister Fatimatu Abubakar confirmed that President Akufo-Addo would use the platform to campaign for Ms. Ayorkor Botchwey's candidacy.

“Ghana has long been a strong and active member of the Commonwealth, and we are confident that Ms. Botchwey will secure the position,” she said.

The Information Minister praised Ayorkor Botchwey’s extensive experience in diplomacy and her work on various Commonwealth committees.

“She has distinguished herself over the years and has proven to be a formidable voice, especially for developing nations,” said Abubakar.

Ms Abubakar added that Ayorkor Botchwey’s vision for the Commonwealth includes enhancing climate resilience, promoting economic transformation through trade and investment, and leveraging technology to create opportunities for young people.

“We believe she will be the first African woman to lead the Commonwealth, and her leadership will inspire many Ghanaian women,” she remarked.

In addition to the election, the summit will serve as a platform for strengthening multilateral relations, facilitating trade, and promoting investment among Commonwealth nations.

Ms Abubakar also highlighted her participation in key discussions during the event, including youth and sports.