Slave Reparations Fight Starts Now After UN Victory – Mahama
President says UN approval is a historic step but calls for sustained global action toward reparative justice
- Mahama says UN victory is only the beginning of the global fight for slave reparations
- Calls for concrete action, including reparations, apologies, and justice measures
- Urges unity among Africa and the diaspora to sustain momentum and achieve lasting justice
President John Dramani Mahama has declared that the global push for justice over slavery reparations is only just beginning, despite the recent breakthrough at the United Nations General Assembly.
Reacting to the adoption of a motion he spearheaded, Mahama described the decision as a major milestone in recognising the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade as one of the gravest crimes against humanity, while stressing that much more work lies ahead.
Speaking after the General Assembly session on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, he noted that the resolution must serve as a foundation for meaningful and sustained global action.
“This is not the end but the start of a long journey. What we have achieved today provides a strong platform to advance the cause of reparative justice,” he stated.
Mahama urged governments and stakeholders not to become complacent following the diplomatic success, but rather intensify efforts toward tangible outcomes such as reparations, official apologies, and broader justice initiatives.
He emphasised the importance of confronting historical truths, calling on those responsible for the injustices of slavery to acknowledge the full extent of what occurred and its lasting impact.
The President also rejected any attempts to diminish or distort the history of slavery, insisting that the UN’s decision reinforces its severity as a crime against humanity.
In addition, he highlighted the importance of unity among African nations and the global African diaspora, describing the achievement as a collective victory.
“This success is not Ghana’s alone—it belongs to Africa and people of African descent everywhere. By maintaining this unity, we can move forward together to achieve even greater milestones,” he said.
Mahama expressed optimism that continued collaboration would help restore the dignity and humanity of enslaved ancestors, while ensuring their legacy is never forgotten.
“This victory ensures that we will always remember. With this resolution in place, the memory of our ancestors will never be erased,” he concluded.
