Britain appoints first black female high commissioner

The British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, also known as the FCO, has appointed its first black female high commissioner, as it looks to transform the image of its diplomatic service as a white, male-dominated organization.

NneNne Iwuji-Eme, who has spent 16 years working for the Foreign Office in a variety of roles, ranging from economic adviser for Africa to chief press officer to the Africa minister, will take over as British high commissioner to Mozambique in July, replacing Joanna Kuenssberg, who has occupied the post for four years.

"I hope my appointment as the first British black female career diplomat to this position will inspire young talent, regardless of race or background, to pursue their ambitions in the Foreign Office," said Iwuji-Eme, whose most recent posting has been in Brazil.

"I look forward to forging even stronger connections between Britain and Mozambique－two close members of the Commonwealth family."

Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson welcomed her appointment, saying she has "vision, experience and energy" for the role.

"As the country heads in a new and exciting direction, it's important that we have the brightest and the best batting for Britain. Our great diversity is an invaluable asset on the global stage, and it's only right that at all levels (of) the FCO reflects this.

"As a continent with some of the world's fastest-growing economies, Africa is an important partner post-Brexit. NneNne has the vision, experience and energy to take our relationship with Mozambique to the next level, and I congratulate her on her appointment."

In recent years the Foreign Office has made concerted efforts to change its social makeup, with 32 percent of overseas missions now being overseen by women－an increase of 200 percent since 2008－and 13.4 percent of its workforce coming from ethnic minorities.