Australia has appointed Ms Keara Shaw as its next High Commissioner to Ghana, with non-resident accreditation to eight other West African countries, in a move aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations, trade, and regional cooperation.
The appointment, announced on Sunday, July 5, 2026, also covers Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
According to a statement from Australia’s High Commission, Australia and Ghana continue to enjoy strong bilateral relations built on their shared Commonwealth membership and long-standing people-to-people ties.
The statement noted that Ghana’s political stability and leadership within the West African sub-region make it an important partner for Australia, with cooperation expanding in trade and investment, the resources sector, and climate-resilient agriculture.
It also highlighted ongoing collaboration between Australia and African countries in promoting peace, stability, and security across West Africa.
Ms Shaw is a career diplomat with Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). During her diplomatic career, she has served in Indonesia and Zimbabwe and previously held the role of Acting High Commissioner to Mauritius.
Australia said her appointment reflects the country’s commitment to strengthening its engagement with Ghana and the wider West African region through experienced diplomatic leadership.
The Australian government also expressed appreciation to the outgoing High Commissioner, Berenice Owen-Jones, for her service since 2022, commending her contribution to advancing Australia’s interests and bilateral relations with Ghana during her tenure.
