President Mahama calls for global justice beyond reparations at Juneteenth event

President John Dramani Mahama joined heads of state and government, traditional leaders, members of the African diaspora, and international delegates at Christiansborg Castle in Osu for the historic joint commemoration of Juneteenth by Africa and the United States.

Reflecting on the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, President Mahama paid tribute to the millions of Africans who endured enslavement, displacement, and the loss of identity, while honouring the resilience, courage, and enduring spirit of their descendants across the world.

The President noted that the commemoration followed the successful conclusion of the Next Steps High-Level Consultative Conference on Reparatory Justice, where participants adopted an outcome document to guide future international cooperation on reparatory justice, historical remembrance, and restitution.

President Mahama emphasised that the pursuit of justice extends beyond reparations and the return of cultural artefacts, calling for a more equitable and inclusive global order that provides opportunity, dignity, and fairness for all people.

Reaffirming Ghana's commitment to strengthening ties with the African diaspora, the President highlighted the country's policies that welcome people of African descent to reconnect with their ancestral homeland, including pathways to residency and expanded visa-free travel across the continent.

“Ghana is your home. You are always welcome in the motherland,” President Mahama stated.

The event brought together an esteemed gathering of leaders, including Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Amor Mottley, heads of state and government representatives from across Africa and the Caribbean, traditional authorities, and members of the global African diaspora.