President John Dramani Mahama has welcomed the United Nations’ approval of a motion recognising the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity, describing the development as a landmark achievement in the global push for justice.

The resolution, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly, also advances calls for reparatory justice, marking a significant diplomatic step in efforts to address the enduring legacy of slavery and its impact on people of African descent worldwide.

Reacting to the outcome after the vote on Wednesday, March 25, President Mahama cautioned that while the decision is historic, it should be viewed as the beginning of a longer journey towards meaningful accountability and restitution.

“This is not the end; this is the beginning. What we have achieved today provides a platform for the continued struggle for reparatory justice,” he stated, urging stakeholders to build on the momentum generated by the resolution.

The President emphasised the need for sustained global engagement to secure tangible outcomes, including formal apologies and concrete reparations.

He also stressed the importance of confronting historical truths, warning against attempts to minimise the gravity of slavery.

“We must use this moment to ensure that those who denied our ancestors their dignity acknowledge the truth of what happened. Today, we have affirmed that this was not just a crime against humanity, but the gravest of them all,” he said.

President Mahama further underscored the collective nature of the achievement, noting that it extends beyond Ghana to encompass the entire African continent and the global African diaspora.

He expressed confidence that continued unity and collaboration would drive the next phase of the reparatory justice agenda.

“This victory is not for Ghana alone; it belongs to Africa and all people of African descent. If we remain united, we will take the next steps together and ensure that our ancestors are never forgotten,” he added.