On Tuesday, the United Kingdom called for a candid and respectful examination of its shared history with Ghana, urging both countries to address the painful legacy of the transatlantic slave trade as Ghana prepares to celebrate 70 years of independence.
British High Commissioner to Ghana, Dr Christian Rogg, said the two countries must be willing to discuss both the progress and painful chapters of their relationship while building a modern partnership based on dignity and mutual respect. “We should be confident enough to discuss both progress and pain, allow space for honest disagreement, and recognise that listening is part of an equal partnership,” he wrote in an opinion piece.
Dr Rogg noted that Ghana’s 70th independence anniversary would provide an important opportunity to reflect on the country’s journey from colonial rule to independence in 1957, as well as its continuing influence in the world. He urged the United Kingdom to participate in those reflections with “humility, openness and respect.”
The High Commissioner also acknowledged the brutality of the transatlantic slave trade, describing it as a “brutal and barbaric violation” in which millions of Africans were separated from their families, denied their humanity and subjected to forced labour. He said any meaningful conversation about the history must begin by recognising the human suffering involved and its continuing effects on descendants and societies.
Dr Rogg’s comments come after Commonwealth leaders agreed at the recent Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to pursue a meaningful, truthful and respectful dialogue on the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Africans and its historical harms. The United Kingdom has agreed to engage in a structured, inclusive and good‑faith dialogue with affected parties, with the High Commissioner stressing that those most affected must help shape the process.
He also noted that Ghana’s leadership in drawing international attention to the slave trade had helped shape the wider Commonwealth conversation. Reflecting on the evolution of relations between the two countries, Dr Rogg said Britain and Ghana now engage as sovereign partners, with cooperation spanning education, culture, business, security and shared economic interests. “Our bilateral relationship is mature enough to face difficult history honestly, to hear each other with respect and to work together towards a common future based on dignity and equity,” he said.
As Ghana prepares for its independence celebrations, the call for a shared, respectful reckoning of a painful past adds a new dimension to the country’s diplomatic engagements. The next steps will involve joint commemorations and dialogue forums aimed at healing historical wounds while strengthening contemporary ties.
