President John Dramani Mahama has appointed Dr Ekwow Spio-Garbrah as Special Envoy for Reparations. His appointment is part of Ghana’s renewed commitment to advancing the global call for reparations for slavery and colonial exploitation.
The appointment, which was announced this week, places Dr Spio-Garbrah at the forefront of Ghana’s advocacy efforts within Africa and the diaspora to mobilise support, build partnerships, and shape policy frameworks that address historical injustices suffered by Africans and people of African descent.
Dr Ekwow Spio-Garbrah brings to the role a wealth of experience in international diplomacy, governance, and development. He previously served as Ghana’s Minister of Trade and Industry, Minister of Education, and Ambassador to the United States and Mexico. He also held a senior position at the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) in London and worked with the African Development Bank (AfDB), where he contributed to strategic initiatives aimed at promoting African economic growth and integration.
During his tenure as Trade and Industry Minister, Dr Spio-Garbrah was instrumental in promoting industrialisation, supporting small and medium enterprises, and facilitating trade agreements that expanded Ghana’s export base. His leadership in education reforms also contributed to strengthening tertiary education governance and expanding access.
As Special Envoy for Reparations, Dr Spio-Garbrah is expected to leverage his extensive international network and diplomatic expertise to coordinate with African governments, the African Union (AU), CARICOM, and global advocacy groups to advance Africa’s case for reparations.
The reparations agenda has gained renewed global attention in recent years, with several African leaders calling for restitution and reparative justice for centuries of exploitation under slavery and colonial rule.
President Mahama, who has been an outspoken advocate for Pan-African solidarity, described the appointment as a strategic step towards ensuring Ghana remains a leading voice in the global movement for reparative justice.
“Dr Spio-Garbrah’s wealth of experience in international relations and his longstanding commitment to Africa’s development make him well-suited to lead Ghana’s contribution to this crucial global conversation,” Mr Mahama stated.
GNA
