Africa: Apology Without Reparatory Justice Not Enough - Pres Mahama

What the report says

Ghana has backed calls for structured, good-faith talks involving the African Union, CARICOM, the African diaspora and countries linked to the transatlantic slave trade and chattel enslavement, according to a report published by Ghanaian Times and distributed by AllAfrica. The remarks came as debate intensified over whether former colonial powers should offer apologies and wider reparatory measures for slavery.

In a statement issued through Government Communications Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu, President John Dramani Mahama said that differences among partners on parts of the reparatory agenda should not weaken the broader push for justice. The government said dialogue could help advance “healing and repair,” but stressed that an apology alone would not be enough.

Mahama argued that any process should include more than symbolic acknowledgment. The report says he called for measures such as action against systemic racism and Afrophobia, investment in education, science, youth empowerment, climate resilience and healthcare, and the return of stolen cultural heritage. He pointed to the Accra Next Steps Commitments, CARICOM’s Ten Point Plan and African Union declarations as a framework for discussions.

The article follows comments from the United Kingdom indicating openness to discussions on an official state apology, while ruling out financial reparations. The issue remains significant because it reflects wider African and Caribbean efforts to seek recognition, accountability and material redress for the legacy of enslavement.