Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to head the World Trade Organization (WTO), has been officially reappointed for a second term as Director-General.
The WTO announced the decision on Friday, November 29, through its verified X (formerly Twitter) account, confirming that her second term will commence on September 1, 2025.
The reappointment, finalized during a closed-door session of the WTO’s General Council, saw unanimous support from the organization’s 166 member states. Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment underscores the global trust in her leadership and her efforts to address the complexities of international trade.
Ambassador Petter Ølberg of Norway, Chair of the General Council, noted that no other nominations were submitted by the November 8 deadline.
The swift reappointment process, which often spans several months, was expedited due to Okonjo-Iweala’s sole candidacy and robust backing from African nations. This move ensures stability ahead of the WTO’s upcoming ministerial conference in Cameroon, slated for 2026.
Okonjo-Iweala’s first term, which began in March 2021, has been marked by her commitment to reforming the WTO. Despite challenges, including a delayed appointment caused by the Trump administration’s veto in 2020, her leadership was ultimately endorsed following President Joe Biden’s assumption of office in early 2021.
At 70, Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment reinforces her pivotal role in navigating global trade challenges and advancing the organization’s agenda. Her second term is expected to build on her ongoing mission to strengthen multilateral trade and enhance the WTO’s relevance in a rapidly evolving global economy.
