President John Dramani Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has expressed deep concern over the enduring impact of slavery imposed by colonial powers, noting that it has greatly hindered the progress of the African continent and its people.
Speaking during the celebration of African Union Day under the theme, “A Year of Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” President John Dramani Mahama, in a video address delivered on Sunday, May 25, 2025, stated that the injustices inflicted on Africans through slavery and neo-colonialism have left deep and lasting wounds.
“The African Union has declared 2025 as a year for justice for Africans and people of African descent through reparations. As the AU champion for this critical cause, I’m deeply committed to working with you all to achieve this vital objective.
“For too long, the legacy of slavery, colonialism and neo colonialism has cast a long shadow on the lives and progress of Africans and people of African descent. These historical injustices have left deep scars,” the president said.
According to him, these historical injustices underscore not only the urgent need for reparations, not merely in financial terms, but as a meaningful acknowledgment of the harm caused, but also the importance of fostering a future where justice prevails and the deep wounds of the past are genuinely healed.
“Reparations are not merely about financial compensation, they are about acknowledging the profound and enduring damage inflicted upon our people. They are about confronting the uncomfortable truths of our past and taking concrete steps to rectify these wrongs,” he continued.
President Mahama further went to say, “We seek justice, justice that encompasses a comprehensive range of measures, including official and unequivocal apologies from the nations and institutions responsible for perpetrating these historical injustices.
“Addressing the crippling debt bedding that continues to stifle economic growth in many African nations, a direct consequence of exploitation and unfair trade practices.”
He added, “Providing resources and expertise to empower African nations to achieve sustainable development and participate fully in the global economy. Returning stolen artifacts and cultural treasures that rightfully belong to our heritage. Investing in the educational initiatives to promote a deeper understanding of African history, culture and contributions to the world.”
President Mahama acknowledged that these are not simple tasks, emphasising that the demand for reparations requires a collaborative and united front, one built on shared determination and commitment in order to achieve meaningful progress.
“This is not a simple task, it requires courage, determination and a unified front. It requires us to engage in meaningful dialogue with those responsible and to advocate tirelessly for our rights. I call upon my colleague African leaders, civil society organisations and youth groups and members of the diaspora to join hands in this important endeavour. Let us work together to build a future where justice prevails, where the wounds of the past are healed and where the potential of every African and person of African descent is fully realized,” he concluded.
Watch the video below:
MAG/MA
After the heavy rains over the weekend, a lot of debris have been left across many parts of Accra. Watch some of the destructions below: