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UK (Commonwealth Union)_ The Commonwealth Secretary-General, the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC, has unveiled the appointment of three distinguished women leaders as her special envoys, tasked with championing the Commonwealth’s values and principles globally. Collaborating with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the major players, each envoy will play a crucial role in supporting the 56 member nations on a key issue aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
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Accordingly, eminent scientist Professor Manahel Thabet has been designated as the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Science and Technology. Recognized for her high IQ and expertise, Professor Thabet will focus on advancing the SDGs, particularly those related to technology, research, and innovation. On numerous occasions, Professor Thabet has been ranked among those with the highest IQs. She received numerous honors, including recognition from the London Journal as one of the most brilliant minds of 2023 and the World Genius Directory’s 2013 Asia Genius of the Year award.
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Secondly, Ambassador Amina Mohamed, former Kenyan cabinet secretary, assumes the role of the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Sport, Enterprise, and Development. Her responsibilities include providing strategic guidance to mobilize support and leadership for SDG targets related to sport, development, and economic growth.
Thirdly, Professor Dame Carol Black, Chair of the British Library and Chair of the Centre for Ageing Better, takes on the role of the Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Ageing Well. Leveraging her extensive experience, she will provide guidance on safeguarding and promoting the rights of older people in SDG implementation. In recognition of her contributions, Professor Dame Carol Black was honored with the Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the British Empire (GBE) earlier this month, making her the first female doctor to receive this distinction.
Addressing the appointments, Secretary-General Patricia Scotland expressed gratitude to the new envoys for their commitment to promoting Commonwealth values integral to achieving the SDGs. With only six years remaining to achieve the SDGs, she emphasized the need for accelerated efforts and believed that the envoys’ drive, talent, and experience would contribute effectively. She stated, “With only six years left to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, it is clear that, despite all efforts, we are not on track. There is a significant gap between where we are and where we need to be. I am confident that the relentless drive, exceptional talent, and considerable experience of these special envoys will help us fill that gap more swiftly and effectively”. She added, “Together with their support, we will now provide more comprehensive assistance to our 56 member countries as they accelerate efforts to achieve the SDGs and transform the lives of the 2.5 billion people who proudly call the Commonwealth their home.”
The new envoys join existing special envoys appointed in 2020, including Justin Mundy OBE (Special Envoy on Climate Change); Professor Prajapati Trivedi (Special Envoy for SDG Implementation); Richard Sezibera (Special Envoy for Health and Education); and Anne Wafula Strike MBE (Champion for Equality in Sports). Together, they form a dedicated team working towards the comprehensive assistance of member countries in achieving the SDGs and positively impacting the lives of Commonwealth residents.
