Ghana is set to introduce a resolution at the United Nations General Assembly in March, aiming to classify the African slave trade as the 'most serious crime against humanity.' President John Dramani Mahama announced this initiative during the closing remarks at the annual African Union summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he stressed the importance of acknowledging historical injustices related to the transatlantic slave trade.

In his statement, Mahama emphasized that this resolution is just the first step towards achieving recognition of the slave trade’s profound injustices. He pointed out that through consultations and support from the African Union, they are confident that the truth regarding the transatlantic slave trade can finally be recognized. He described the slave trade as not only a historical grievance but a significant crime that had lasting effects on African societies and their descendants worldwide.

The proposed resolution aims to spark an international dialogue about the implications of the slave trade and the importance of acknowledging this dark chapter in history. By encouraging member states to officially classify the slave trade as a crime against humanity, Ghana seeks to promote further discussions on reparations and the broader impacts of racialized enslavement practices. This move could potentially alter the narrative around historical injustices and initiate a renewed focus on addressing the legacy of slavery today.