The Government of Ghana has welcomed what it describes as a historic apology by Pope Leo XIV acknowledging the role of the Holy See in legitimising and sustaining the transatlantic slave trade.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, May 26, the government said the Pope’s statement represented “an act of moral courage” and an important contribution toward historical truth, justice and reconciliation.
According to the statement, Ghana recognises Pope Leo XIV’s longstanding commitment to compassion, social justice and the dignity of humanity, noting that his apology comes at a critical moment when the global community is reflecting on the enduring impact of slavery and colonialism.
The government stressed that millions of Africans and people of African descent suffered immense dehumanisation under the transatlantic slave trade, the effects of which continue to shape societies around the world today. It said honest recognition of that painful history remains essential for healing and reconciliation.
Ghana also linked the Pope’s apology to the recent adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, which declared the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as among the gravest crimes against humanity. The resolution, according to the statement, reinforces the need to preserve historical memory and sustain global dialogue on justice and equality for Africans and people of African descent.
The government noted that discussions around the UN resolution included debates over the historical role of the Church, including Papal Bulls associated with the slave trade. Against that backdrop, Ghana described the Pope’s apology as “particularly significant and refreshing.”
As a country deeply connected to the history of the slave trade, with numerous forts and castles along its coastline serving as reminders of the era, Ghana reaffirmed its commitment to advancing historical justice and remembrance in collaboration with international partners, faith communities and civil society groups.
The statement further announced that John Dramani Mahama will host a High-Level Consultative Conference in Accra from June 17 to 19, 2026, aimed at discussing the next steps following the adoption of the UN resolution and sustaining global engagement on historical justice and human dignity.
President Mahama also expressed appreciation to Pope Leo XIV for what the government described as a significant step toward truth, healing and a shared commitment to humanity.
Story By: Eric Boateng
