Mon Sep 16 15:43:09 UTC 2024: ## WTO Chief Okonjo-Iweala Seeks Second Term Amidst Push from Africa
Geneva – Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first female and African Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), has announced her bid for a second four-year term, citing a desire to complete unfinished business from her first mandate. The announcement follows a strong push from African nations to kickstart the process early, aiming to secure her re-election before the November US presidential election.
Okonjo-Iweala, 70, a former Nigerian finance minister, has made significant strides during her tenure, including brokering the first part of a global treaty on cutting fishing subsidies. However, she faces challenges including stalled negotiations on agriculture and the need to reform the WTO’s disputes system, which has been hampered by US inaction.
Despite the complexities of the role and the ongoing geopolitical tensions among the WTO’s 166 members, Okonjo-Iweala remains committed. She stated, “It is tough… but it’s also a job that makes me want to get out of bed in the morning.”
Her bid for a second term hinges on securing the support of all member states, a process that could be complicated by the upcoming US elections. In 2020, the Trump administration blocked her appointment, but she secured US backing under Biden. The outcome of the US elections could significantly impact the WTO’s future and Okonjo-Iweala’s re-election prospects.
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