Leaders and dignitaries from across the Commonwealth gather in London to honour the newly appointed Secretary-General
London, UK – In a powerful demonstration of unity, leadership, and diaspora excellence, Grow, Unite, Build, Africa (GUBA) Limited and the GUBA Foundation co-hosted an exclusive welcome reception in honour of the newly appointed Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Honourable Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey. Held at the historic Lancaster House in London, the event welcomed distinguished guests from across the Commonwealth and the global diplomatic community.
The evening was graced by high-level dignitaries including the Rt Hon David Lammy, UK Foreign Secretary, alongside Commonwealth High Commissioners, senior diplomats, government ministers, traditional leaders, and notable figures from the worlds of business, academia, development, and culture. Among the special guests was the traditional ruler of the Akwamu people of Ghana, symbolising the rich cultural ties that underpin the Commonwealth.
This landmark event celebrated Secretary-General Botchwey’s historic appointment as the first African woman to lead the 56-member Commonwealth, representing over 2.5 billion people across the globe.
In her address, Hon. Botchwey spoke passionately about the Commonwealth’s enduring purpose:
“The Commonwealth is a living promise — of unity, of cooperation, of progress and sustainability. In a world this fractured, we are a space for solutions.”
The reception served not only as a moment of celebration, but also as a strategic platform to initiate key partnerships aligned with the Secretary-General’s vision for a more responsive, inclusive, and transformative Commonwealth. It precedes her upcoming participation in the Commonwealth Trade Ministers Meeting (CTMM) in Namibia — the first to be held outside the UK, and the inaugural Commonwealth Business Summit.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy also addressed the gathering, affirming the UK’s support for the Secretary-General and her agenda:
“A thriving Commonwealth is a matter close to my heart. My heritage, spanning the UK and the Caribbean, Africa and India, gives me a powerful sense of belonging in this family of nations.”
Lady Dentaa Amoateng MBE, the CEO and President of GUBA, played a dual role as co-host and representative of both organising bodies, GUBA and the GUBA Foundation. Speaking on behalf of the GUBA brand, she expressed immense pride:
“As a daughter of Ghana, it was an honour to host this significant moment in history. The vision of the Commonwealth aligns deeply with our mission at GUBA — to celebrate African excellence, foster unity, and build sustainable opportunities for our communities worldwide. I am proud to support Secretary-General Botchwey as she leads us into a new era.”
Beyond the diplomatic speeches and high-level networking, the evening offered a vibrant showcase of Commonwealth culture. Guests were treated to stunning performances including traditional African drumming and dance by BLEMA, Caribbean-inspired music from Ayeshah George and Zola Steelpan, and a dynamic DJ set by internationally acclaimed Nigerian artist DJ Cuppy.
The evening closed on a high note, with guests departing inspired by a renewed sense of Commonwealth purpose and the power of global collaboration. GUBA Limited and the GUBA Foundation remain committed to creating spaces that elevate African voices and advance inclusive development within and beyond the diaspora.
About GUBA Foundation
As the charitable arm of Grow Unite Build Africa (GUBA) Limited, the GUBA Foundation is dedicated to advancing sustainable development and fostering lasting prosperity across Africa and its diaspora. Our mission is to empower communities through impactful, transformative initiatives.
Operating through independently governed branches in the UK, Ghana, and the USA, the GUBA Foundation delivers high-impact programmes in Education, Health, and Youth Empowerment, working collaboratively to create meaningful and measurable change.
