In a solemn and reflective address at the United Nations, John Dramani Mahama called on the global community to honour, remember, and learn from one of humanity’s darkest chapters which is the transatlantic slave trade.
Marking the International Day of Remembrance, President Mahama described the occasion as more than a ceremonial event. He said it represents a collective effort to document history, educate future generations, and foster healing across societies.
He highlighted how remembrance takes many forms from books and oral histories to monuments like the Ark of Return at the UN Headquarters each serving as a reminder of the pain endured by millions of Africans.
Tracing the origins of the commemoration, President Mahama noted that the UN’s decision in 2006 and 2007 to establish and institutionalize the remembrance day marked important steps in global progress.
However, he emphasized that true progress requires continuous action, not just reflection.
Central to his message was a strong push for a new UN resolution declaring slavery the gravest crime against humanity.
He described the initiative as rooted in truth, compassion, and moral responsibility, aimed at ensuring that the legacy of slavery is neither ignored nor repeated.
President Mahama framed the moment as a defining test for the international community, urging nations to choose justice over indifference.
“This is not just about the past,” he implied, “but about the kind of future we are building.”
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh(#RomeoWrites✍️)/Ahotoronline.com | Ghana 🇬🇭
