Ghana is set to host a major international conference in Accra next month following a historic apology by Pope Leo XIV over the Holy See’s alleged involvement in the transatlantic slave trade.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by Presidential Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the government said Ghana “warmly welcomes” the Pope’s acknowledgement and apology for the role played by the Holy See in “legitimising and sustaining the enslavement of Africans and the transatlantic slave trade.”
The Presidency described the Pope’s comments as “an act of moral courage” and “an important contribution to the ongoing global pursuit of historical truth, human dignity and justice.”
It noted that President John Mahama views the apology as a significant step at a time when the world is increasingly reflecting on the lasting impact of slavery and colonialism.
“It reinforces the growing global understanding that confronting historical injustices demands truth-telling and moral responsibility as essential foundations for justice and reconciliation,” the statement said.
According to the Presidency, millions of Africans and people of African descent suffered “unimaginable suffering and dehumanisation” under centuries of enslavement, with effects that continue to resonate across generations and societies.
The statement also referenced United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, which described the trafficking and enslavement of Africans as “the gravest crime against humanity.”
It added that debates leading to the resolution included discussions on historical institutions and decrees linked to the slave trade.
“Against this background, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV’s apology is particularly significant and refreshing, as it demonstrates a willingness to confront difficult historical truths in the interest of justice, understanding and reconciliation,” the statement noted.
Ghana, which played a central role in the transatlantic slave trade through its historic forts and castles along its coast, said it remains committed to advancing “historical justice, remembrance and the restoration of human dignity.”
On that basis, government has announced that Accra will host a High-Level Consultative Conference from June 17 to June 19, 2026.
The conference, convened by President Mahama, will focus on next steps following the UN resolution and strengthen “global engagement on historical justice, remembrance and human dignity.”
“Ghana looks forward to welcoming the international community to Accra,” the statement said.
It further expressed hope that countries that did not support the resolution would eventually “align with its objectives and join Ghana and the broader international community in advancing its effective implementation.”
President Mahama also conveyed appreciation to Pope Leo XIV for the gesture and said he looks forward to continued global dialogue in promoting truth, healing and a shared commitment to humanity.
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