COP Lydia Donkor Makes History as First Ghanaian Elected to INTERPOL Africa Committee

The Ghana Police Service has celebrated a historic milestone following the election of Commissioner of Police (COP) Lydia Yaako Donkor, Director-General of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), to the newly formed INTERPOL Africa Regional Committee.

COP Donkor, who will serve a four-year term, becomes the first Ghanaian and the only woman on the committee, marking a significant achievement for both the country and women in law enforcement across the continent.

Her election, announced on Friday, August 29, 2025, has been hailed as a recognition of her distinguished career, leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice and security. The Ghana Police Service described her appointment as a testament to Ghana’s growing influence in global policing and a bold step forward for gender inclusion in high-level security decision-making.

The INTERPOL Africa Committee was established to enhance cooperation among law enforcement agencies across the continent. Its mandate includes identifying strategic priorities in the fight against crime, advising the African Regional Conference, and proposing coordinated actions to tackle regional security challenges.

In a statement, COP Donkor expressed her gratitude and pledged to use her position to strengthen regional collaboration. “This is an opportunity to amplify Africa’s voice in global policing. I am deeply humbled to serve, and I hope my presence inspires more women to pursue leadership roles in security and justice,” she said.

Alongside Ghana, Egypt, Kenya, and South Africa were elected to serve four-year terms, while Botswana, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, and Sudan secured two-year seats on the committee.

COP Donkor’s election has been widely praised by security experts and civil society groups, who view her appointment as a breakthrough for women in policing and a reflection of Ghana’s commitment to excellence in law enforcement.

The Ghana Police Service reaffirmed its support for COP Donkor and expressed confidence in her ability to represent the nation and the continent with distinction.