Ghana, Jamaica’s foreign ministers discuss reparatory justice and bilateral cooperation

The Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ghana, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has received Jamaica‘s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, during a courtesy call held in Accra on Monday, May 25, 2026.

The meeting formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations and deepen cooperation between Ghana and Jamaica.

During the discussions, Mr Ablakwa expressed gratitude to the Government of Jamaica for the warm reception extended to him during his visit when the Engineers’ Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces was deployed to assist with reconstruction efforts following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.

He also thanked Jamaica for supporting United Nations Resolution A/RES/80/250, adopted on March 25, 2026, and briefed his counterpart on the upcoming High-Level Consultative Conference on the Next Steps of the Landmark Resolution on Slavery scheduled to take place from June 17 to 19, 2026.

According to him, the conference is aimed at advancing a common global framework toward reparatory justice.

Hon. Ablakwa further highlighted the longstanding historical ties between Ghana and Jamaica and stressed the need to renew cooperation under existing bilateral agreements while exploring new opportunities for mutual benefit.

On her part, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith commended Ghana for its diplomatic leadership and role in advancing international discussions on historical injustices and reparatory justice.

She also updated Ghana on efforts being undertaken by Jamaica regarding reparatory justice and assured Ghana of her country’s continued support and collaboration.

The Jamaican Foreign Minister further praised the Engineers’ Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces for the camaraderie and professionalism demonstrated while working alongside Jamaican personnel during reconstruction activities after Hurricane Melissa.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in areas beneficial to the peoples of Ghana and Jamaica.