Mahama Welcomes UK's Openness to Apology and Reparations for Slave Trade

President John Dramani Mahama has welcomed the UK government's acknowledgement of the atrocities committed during the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its openness to a formal apology and structured dialogue on reparatory justice. Mahama described the development as a significant contribution to the growing international consensus on reparatory justice. As African Union Champion on Reparations and Chair of the Global Advisory Panel on Reparatory Justice, he commended the UK government's willingness to confront its history of slavery and colonialism.

Ghana, home to the world's highest number of slave castles and forts, including Cape Coast, Elmina, and Christianborg, was a major hub for the transatlantic slave trade. Millions of Africans were held in these locations before being transported across the Atlantic into slavery. Mahama noted that while acknowledgement of the atrocities and a formal apology cannot reverse the injustices suffered, they represent an important step towards healing and reparation. The President's statement was released on Sunday, November 1, 2026.

Mahama called for structured, good-faith dialogue involving the African Union, CARICOM, the African diaspora, and countries that participated in the transatlantic system of enslavement. He outlined five key areas that discussions on reparatory justice should address. A formal apology was the first item on the list. The President also emphasized the need for a coordinated international commitment to dismantle systemic racism and Afrophobia.

The President's proposal for reparatory justice also includes targeted investments in education, science, youth empowerment, climate resilience, and healthcare. Restitution of stolen cultural heritage and strategic development partnerships to address structural poverty and inequalities in global economic and debt systems are also crucial. Mahama reaffirmed Ghana's solidarity with AU member states, the CARICOM community, and Africans in the Americas.

Mahama commended UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband for their recognition of the importance of confronting historical injustices. He expressed Ghana's readiness to work with the African Union, CARICOM, its global coalition partners, and the United Kingdom towards lasting justice, reconciliation, and an end to racism and discrimination.

The statement was released by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister for Government Communications. Mahama's statement reflects Ghana's commitment to addressing the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade and promoting reparatory justice. The President's efforts have garnered international attention and support.

The UK government's openness to a formal apology and reparations marks a significant shift in its stance on the transatlantic slave trade. Mahama's leadership on this issue has been instrumental in pushing for international dialogue and action. The outcome of these discussions will be closely watched by advocates for reparatory justice and human rights.

Key points

• President Mahama commends UK government's willingness to confront its history of slavery and colonialism.
• Mahama outlines five key areas for discussions on reparatory justice, including a formal apology and targeted investments.
• Ghana reaffirms its solidarity with AU member states, CARICOM community, and Africans in the Americas on reparatory justice.