Ghana has welcomed an apology by Pope Leo XIV over the Catholic Church’s historical role in the transatlantic slave trade, describing it as a significant step toward global justice and reconciliation.
In a statement issued by the Presidency and signed by government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu, authorities said the Pope’s acknowledgement represented “an act of moral courage” and a meaningful contribution to ongoing international conversations on slavery, colonialism and reparatory justice.
“The Government of the Republic of Ghana warmly welcomes the historic statement… acknowledging and apologising for the role played by the Holy See in legitimising and sustaining the enslavement of Africans,” the statement said.
According to the Presidency, the apology comes at a critical moment as the global community deepens its reflection on the long-term consequences of slavery and colonial rule.
“For five centuries, millions of Africans and people of African descent endured unimaginable suffering and dehumanisation… whose effects continue to shape societies and communities across the world today,” it added.
Government emphasised that confronting historical injustices remains essential for healing and reconciliation.
“Honest recognition of this painful history remains an essential step toward healing, reconciliation and a more just future,” the statement said.
The Presidency also linked the Pope’s remarks to growing international momentum for accountability, citing the recent adoption of United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/80/250, which described the transatlantic slave trade as “the gravest crime against humanity” and called for sustained global dialogue on justice and remembrance.
Officials noted that debates leading to the resolution included scrutiny of the historical role of religious institutions, including references to papal edicts associated with the slave trade.
“Against this background, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV’s apology is particularly significant… as it demonstrates a willingness to confront difficult historical truths,” the statement said.
Ghana said it remains closely tied to the legacy of the slave trade through coastal forts and castles that served as holding sites for enslaved Africans before their forced shipment abroad.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to working with international partners, civil society and faith-based organisations to advance efforts toward historical justice and restoration of human dignity.
It also announced plans to host a high-level consultative conference in Accra from June 17 to 19, 2026, under the leadership of John Mahama.
The conference is expected to focus on next steps following the UN resolution and sustaining global engagement on justice, reparations and remembrance.
President Mahama, according to the statement, expressed appreciation to the Pope “for this significant step” and reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to promoting “truth, healing and a shared commitment to humanity.”
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