AU Day: Time to right historical wrongs through reparatory justice – President Mahama
President John Dramani Mahama has pledged his continued support for reparatory justice for Africans and people of African descent, as the continent marks 2025 as the “Year for Reparatory Justice.”
In a statement to commemorate Africa Day, Mahama—who has been appointed by the AU as its champion for the reparations agenda—reiterated his dedication to seeing the process through in collaboration with other African leaders.
“The AU has declared 2025 as the year for justice for Africans and people of African descent through reparations,” he said.
“As the AU champion for this critical cause, I am deeply committed to working with you all to achieve this objective.”
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The African Union’s declaration signals a renewed continental push to address historical injustices, including the transatlantic slave trade, colonial exploitation and their long-lasting social and economic impacts.
Mahama’s remarks come amid mounting global advocacy for reparatory measures and formal recognition of the damage caused by centuries of systemic oppression.
The President’s message also serves as a symbolic rallying call on Africa Day, a moment set aside each year to reflect on the continent’s unity and progress since the formation of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963.
Mahama’s role is expected to involve engaging with African governments, civil society and international partners to articulate a coordinated response to reparations claims.
