The government has announced that Ghana will host a major international conference in Accra from June 17 to 19, 2026, aimed at advancing global discussions on historical justice, remembrance, and the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.
The announcement was made in a statement by Government Communications Minister and spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, who welcomed a recent apology issued by Pope Leo XIV over the Holy See’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.
In his latest encyclical, the Pope described slavery as “a wound in Christian memory” and expressed regret on behalf of the Catholic Church for its role in slavery and related systems of oppression.
According to the government, Ghana will continue collaborating with international partners, religious bodies, civil society groups, and advocates for justice to promote healing, remembrance, and the restoration of human dignity.
The statement noted that the upcoming High-Level Consultative Conference is being convened by President John Dramani Mahama to discuss the way forward after the adoption of a global resolution focused on historical justice and remembrance.
Government described the Pope’s apology as a courageous and meaningful contribution to worldwide efforts toward truth, justice, and reconciliation. It added that acknowledging the painful history of slavery and colonialism is necessary for healing and building a fairer future.
The statement also referenced President Mahama’s recent address at the United Nations General Assembly, where he proposed a motion seeking recognition of the transatlantic slave trade and the enslavement of Africans as “the gravest crime against humanity.”
Ghana further expressed hope that countries yet to support the resolution would eventually join efforts to advance historical accountability and reconciliation.
President Mahama also thanked Pope Leo XIV for the apology and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to continued global dialogue on truth, healing, and justice.
Source: citinews
