She will officially start work on April 1, 2025.

On her arrival at the airport, she said her selection was "national honour" and she was therefore seeking the prayers and support of all Ghanaians to help her succeed in her new role. 

"I will need your prayers in the new job as I step into this role," she remarked, addressing an enthusiastic crowd that welcomed her at Kotoka International Airport on Monday, October 28, 2024.

Ms Ayorkor Botchwey expressed her appreciation and acknowledged the significance and the responsibility that come with leading the Commonwealth, a coalition of 56 member states.

Her election represents a historic moment, as she becomes the first African woman to hold this position and the second consecutive woman to lead the Commonwealth Secretariat.

Expressing her gratitude, Ms Ayorkor Botchwey said, "In the coming days, I will make myself available to the media."

She also extended her appreciation to the heads of governments of Commonwealth nations for their support and congratulatory messages on her election.

The newly elected Secretary-General pledged to work tirelessly to achieve the Commonwealth’s goals, emphasising her commitment to fostering unity and cooperation across member states.

Ms Ayorkor Botchwey will succeed Patricia Scotland, who has served as Commonwealth Secretary-General since 2016 and will complete her term in March 2025.

President Akufo-Addo on October 26, 2024, extended his congratulatory message to Ms Ayorkor Botchwey on her election. 

"Today, I feel a deep sense of pride and joy in congratulating Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey on her election as the next and 7th Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. As the first Ghanaian to hold this position, her selection speaks to the strength of her character and her dedication to service, as well as to the esteem in which our nation, Ghana, is held amongst her peers," President Akufo-Addo wrote his social media.