“Unity Is Our Strength” — Mahama Reacts to UN Reparations Resolution
Global Call for Justice as UN Backs Ghana’s Reparations Motion
- UN General Assembly adopts Ghana-led reparations resolution with 123 votes in favour
- Mahama celebrates decision as a major step toward justice for victims of slavery
- Global unity urged to address lasting impacts and restore dignity of affected Africans
President John Dramani Mahama has hailed the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of Ghana’s reparations motion as a significant diplomatic milestone.
The resolution, passed on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, calls for a renewed global commitment to reparative justice for African nations and descendants of enslaved people. It encourages member states to enter structured discussions and implement tangible measures to address the enduring social, economic, and cultural consequences of slavery.
Following extensive deliberation, the motion was approved with 123 votes in favour. The United States, Argentina, and Israel opposed it, while 52 countries abstained. Although the United States acknowledged the historical injustice of slavery, it described the resolution as “highly problematic,” citing concerns over who should benefit from reparations.
In a post on X on Thursday, March 26, President Mahama expressed deep joy over the outcome, noting that the resolution recognises the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as one of the gravest crimes against humanity.
“I am overjoyed by the adoption by the UN General Assembly of the resolution declaring the trafficking of enslaved Africans and racialised chattel enslavement of Africans as the gravest crime against humanity,” he said.
He credited the success to strong international collaboration, highlighting the roles played by the African Union, CARICOM, and other global partners in moving the motion from proposal to adoption.
According to President Mahama, the resolution marks an important step toward honouring the millions of Africans affected by the transatlantic slave trade. Referencing the words of Toussaint Louverture, he underscored the power of unity in confronting historical injustice.
“The greatest weapon against oppression is unity,” he noted.
He further called for sustained global solidarity in the pursuit of justice and the restoration of dignity for those impacted by slavery.
“We must remain united in our quest to restore the humanity and dignity of our ancestors who were enslaved and sold,” he emphasized.
