Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), has announced her intention to seek a second term as Director-General when her current mandate expires in August 2025. Her decision was formally communicated to WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, on Monday.
The African Group within the WTO expressed their support for her candidacy during the meeting, urging that the process for her re-nomination begin as soon as possible.
Since taking office in March 2021, Okonjo-Iweala has focused on revitalizing the organization and addressing global trade challenges, aiming to enhance its effectiveness in a rapidly changing economic landscape. Her leadership has been marked by efforts to encourage collaboration among member countries and to address pressing issues such as trade inequalities and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global commerce.
“We can confirm that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has officially announced her intention to seek a second term as Director-General of the WTO,” spokesman Ismaila Dieng said in a statement.
Dieng stated that the 70-year-old had considered “the widespread and strong support demonstrated by the members.”
Her current term leading the 166-member WTO is set to conclude in August 2025.
Her choice to pursue another term was officially conveyed to WTO chair, Norwegian Ambassador Petter Olberg, on Monday. During the same meeting, the WTO’s African Group formally asked her to be available for a second term and suggested that the re-nomination process should commence promptly. As of now, no other candidates have emerged.
As she prepares for her re-nomination, Okonjo-Iweala’s track record and vision for the future of the WTO will be closely watched by member nations and stakeholders in the global trade community.
