New york: President John Dramani Mahama, the African Union Champion for Reparations, has declared his plans to propose a motion at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) regarding reparations from Western nations to Africa.
According to Ghana News Agency, President Mahama emphasized the recognition of the slave trade as a significant crime against humanity, expressing Ghana's intention to bring this motion to the UNGA. Speaking at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, he highlighted the forced transportation of over twelve and a half million Africans to benefit Western powers, asserting the need for reparations for enslavement and colonization, which led to the loss of natural resources and cultural heritage.
President Mahama pointed out the disparity in defense spending and cuts in Official Development Assistance as the world faces insecurity. He noted a 40 percent decline in humanitarian aid to Africa since July 2024, emphasizing Africa's need to assert control over its natural resources to ensure the well-being of its citizens.
He advocated for an end to granting vast concessions to foreign entities for exploitation, stressing the importance of negotiating better terms for Africa's natural resources. He highlighted the ongoing issues of poverty and lack of representation, urging for a narrative that acknowledges Africa's history and resilience.
Quoting Indian-American writer Arundhati Roy, President Mahama expressed hope for a new world of safety and equality, especially for women and girls. He underscored the necessity for African leaders to empower all individuals to realize their full potential.
The African Union, during its Mid-Year Review in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, adopted a resolution to extend the Reparations theme by a decade, with President Mahama as the Champion, covering the period from 2026 to 2036.
