Ghana’s Mahama says slavery reparations need not be cash payments

Ghanaian President John Mahama says reparations for slavery can take forms beyond cash payments.

He suggested investments in education, health and economic growth, as well as changes to debt treatment, could help address the harm caused.

The transatlantic slave trade brought about 10–15 million people from Africa to the Americas over four centuries.

In March, the United Nations adopted a non-binding resolution describing the trade as “the gravest crime against humanity” and calling for restitution and compensation.

Britain has ruled out financial reparations, although its prime minister has said he is open to an apology and cooperation on other measures.

Mahama has set up three panels to explore practical steps toward reparatory justice.

The panels are expected to consider possible ways to address the lasting effects of slavery.