The Government of Ghana has welcomed a statement by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV acknowledging and apologising for the historical role played by the Holy See in legitimising and sustaining the transatlantic slave trade.
In a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson and Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, on Thursday, May 28, the government described the Pope’s remarks as an act of moral courage and an important contribution to the global pursuit of historical truth, justice and human dignity.
According to the statement, Ghana recognises Pope Leo XIV’s longstanding commitment to compassion, social justice and solidarity with vulnerable communities.
The government noted that for centuries, millions of Africans and people of African descent suffered dehumanisation and exploitation through racialised chattel slavery, the effects of which continue to impact societies around the world.
It said acknowledging this painful history remains essential to healing, reconciliation and the pursuit of a more just future.
President John Dramani Mahama described the Pope’s acknowledgement as significant at a time when the international community is engaging in deeper reflection on the lasting consequences of slavery and colonialism.
The statement added that the apology reinforces growing global recognition that addressing historical injustices requires truth-telling and moral responsibility.
“His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama expresses his appreciation to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV for this significant step and looks forward to continuing global engagement in promoting truth, healing and a shared commitment to humanity,” the statement said.
The government also referenced 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.
According to the statement, discussions surrounding the resolution included debates over historical references to the role of the Church, including Papal Bulls linked to the transatlantic slave trade.
Against that background, Ghana described Pope Leo XIV’s apology as “particularly significant and refreshing.”
The government reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to working with international partners, faith communities and civil society groups to advance historical justice, remembrance and the restoration of human dignity.
It also announced that Ghana will host a High-Level Consultative Conference in Accra from June 17 to 19, 2026, to discuss next steps following the adoption of the UN resolution and sustain global engagement on issues of historical justice and remembrance.
President Mahama, according to the statement, expressed appreciation to Pope Leo XIV for what he described as a significant step toward truth, healing and reconciliation.
