Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the Commonwealth’s ideals during the 76th Commonwealth Day celebration in Accra. The theme “Together We Thrive” emphasized cooperation and inclusivity. Key highlights included the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat and the election of Ghana’s first female Vice President, illustrating significant advancements in democracy and gender representation in Ghana.
Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah, the Minister of Defence, reaffirmed Ghana’s dedication to the Commonwealth’s principles—cooperation, inclusivity, and shared prosperity. During his address at a flag-raising and tree-planting ceremony in Accra for the 76th Commonwealth Day celebration, he emphasized the importance of unity in achieving strength and diversity as a source of opportunity.
The theme for this year’s celebration was “Together We Thrive.” Commonwealth Day, observed annually on the second Monday in March, celebrates a voluntary association of 56 independent nations committed to shared values and objectives. The Minister, representing the Foreign Affairs Minister, noted that this year’s theme underscores the Commonwealth’s mission of promoting democracy, fostering inclusivity, and mutual efforts towards peace and prosperity.
Dr. Omane Boamah articulated that Commonwealth Day serves more than a ceremonial purpose; it is an opportunity to assess collective achievements and recommit to peace, democracy, and sustainable development within its member states. He highlighted this year as particularly special, marking the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat, which facilitates cooperation among member countries.
He further mentioned, “For us in Ghana, this anniversary is significant as we celebrate with pride the assumption of duty in April 2025 of our immediate past Minister for Foreign Affairs, the Honourable Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, as the 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth.” This appointment recognizes her as both the first African woman and the first Ghanaian to hold this esteemed position, highlighting a significant milestone in Ghana’s diplomatic legacy.
Expressing confidence in Ms. Botchwey’s abilities, he urged Commonwealth Member States to unite in support of her vision for progress and prosperity. Dr. Omane Boamah also reflected on Ghana’s democratic journey, noting the peaceful transition of power in December 2024, with President John Dramani Mahama’s election and the election of Ghana’s first female Vice President, Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, as landmark achievements in gender representation.
He conveyed gratitude towards the Commonwealth Secretariat for its various supports in bolstering Ghana’s democratic processes through election observation and technical assistance. Madam Harriet Thompson, the British High Commissioner in Accra, emphasized that the Commonwealth family is strongest when united in friendship and remembered the commitment of Commonwealth leaders who convened in Samoa in October 2024. Lastly, Mr. John Apea from the Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council highlighted the importance of solidarity and shared ideals within the Commonwealth.
In conclusion, Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah’s remarks during the Commonwealth Day celebrations in Accra reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the principles of cooperation, inclusivity, and shared prosperity. With significant milestones such as the 60th anniversary of the Commonwealth Secretariat and the historic election of the first female Vice President, the celebration served as a reflection of both achievements and renewed commitments. The event highlighted the importance of unity and collaboration among member states in pursuing peace, democracy, and sustainable development.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
