Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), has officially announced her intention to seek a second four-year term when her current mandate ends in August 2025. This announcement was confirmed by her spokesman, Ismaila Dieng.
Dieng noted that Okonjo-Iweala’s decision to pursue another term is influenced by the “overwhelming and broad-based support expressed by members” of the WTO. She communicated her decision to the WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, on Monday.
The African Group within the WTO formally requested her re-nomination during the same meeting, proposing that the process begin promptly. As of now, no other candidates have emerged for the position.
Okonjo-Iweala, who began her tenure in March 2021, has focused on revitalizing the WTO and addressing its challenges. Her leadership has garnered significant support, with 58 of the WTO’s 164 member states expressing their backing for her continued leadership. This support was officially recorded during a WTO General Council meeting on July 22.
The African Group’s proposal highlights the positive reception of Okonjo-Iweala’s work, with many member states praising her achievements during her first term. Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude for the support, emphasizing that her accomplishments are a collective effort.
The reappointment process for the WTO Director-General is expected to commence soon, with a strong endorsement from the African Group and a significant number of member states already in support of Okonjo-Iweala’s second term.