Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has been reappointed for a second four-year term as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), starting from September 1, 2025. The decision was made during a special meeting of WTO members on Friday.
Okonjo-Iweala, who made history in 2021 as the first woman and the first African to lead the WTO, will continue her leadership role, guiding the international organization in promoting global trade and economic cooperation.
“WTO members today agreed to give incumbent Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala a second term as Director-General of the WTO,” the organization said in an official statement.
Her reappointment reflects the confidence that member nations have in her ability to steer the WTO through complex global trade challenges and to drive inclusive growth and development.
Okonjo-Iweala expressed her gratitude, stating, “I am honored to have the opportunity to continue serving as Director-General. Together, we can strengthen the multilateral trading system and ensure it benefits all.”
With her extensive experience in global finance and development, Okonjo-Iweala is expected to focus on addressing issues such as trade disparities, sustainable development, and fostering cooperation among nations.
Youth across the Global South have looked up to Okonjo-Iweala as a symbol of progress and representation on the world stage. Her continued leadership at the WTO brings hope for increased attention to the economic aspirations and challenges faced by developing nations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
