Pope Leo XIV’s Apology on Slave Trade a Major Step Toward Healing — Mahama
Government welcomes Pope Leo XIV’s apology on slave trade
The Government of Ghana has welcomed remarks by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV acknowledging and apologising for the Holy See’s historical role in legitimising and sustaining the transatlantic slave trade.
In a statement issued on Thursday, May 28, Presidential Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu described the Pope’s comments as an act of moral courage and a significant contribution to global efforts toward historical truth, justice, and human dignity.
The government also commended Pope Leo XIV for his longstanding advocacy for compassion, social justice, and support for vulnerable communities.
It noted that millions of Africans and people of African descent suffered brutal exploitation under chattel slavery, the effects of which continue to impact societies today.
According to the statement, acknowledging this painful history is essential for healing, reconciliation, and building a more just future.
President John Dramani Mahama said the Pope’s acknowledgement is particularly meaningful at a time when the world is increasingly reflecting on the long-term consequences of slavery and colonialism.
The statement further said the apology reinforces a growing global consensus that confronting historical injustices requires truth-telling and moral responsibility.
President Mahama expressed appreciation to the Pope, describing the gesture as a significant step toward truth, healing, and reconciliation.
The government also referenced United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, which recognises the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as one of the gravest crimes against humanity.
It noted that discussions leading to the resolution included references to historical Church involvement, including Papal Bulls linked to the transatlantic slave trade.
Ghana described the Pope’s apology as particularly significant in this context.
The statement reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working with international partners, faith-based organisations, and civil society to promote historical justice, remembrance, and human dignity.
It also announced that Ghana will host a High-Level Consultative Conference in Accra from June 17 to 19, 2026, to advance discussions on historical justice and follow up on the UN resolution.
