Mahama calls for permanent global system to secure restitution of Africa’s cultural heritage
President John Dramani Mahama has said our next step is to build permanent global system for restitution. He has also called for unconditional return of all human remains, saying human remains are not collectibles.
President John Dramani Mahama has called for the creation of a permanent global system to facilitate the return of Africa's cultural heritage and human remains. He urged the United Nations and holding nations to establish clear legal and diplomatic mechanisms to streamline provenance research, increase transparency, and reduce legal barriers to restitution.
The call for action came during a high-level side event on reparatory justice at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Mahama emphasised that restitution is not merely about returning objects, but about restoring dignity, justice, and the legacy of African communities. He cited historical examples of looting, such as the destruction of Kumasi in 1874 and the decapitation of King Badu Bonsu II in 1838.
He also highlighted that Africa is actively building infrastructure for the future, such as the Great African Museum and the African Union-EU Museum Partnership. Mahama urged multilateral development banks and international institutions to invest in Africa's cultural infrastructure to create a lasting engine of development and education.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
