Accra is set to become the first city in a new global network of memorials honouring victims of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, with a symbolic monument to be installed at the PWD triangle outside City Hall.
The announcement was made on Thursday, July 17, when the Mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, visited the proposed memorial site alongside the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, as part of his five-day trade mission to Africa, aimed at strengthening economic partnerships, cultural connections, and historical reconciliation.
Addressing dignitaries and the media at the site, Mayor Khan praised the energy and vision of the Mayor of Accra, describing him as the youngest Mayor Accra has ever had.
He noted the enduring ties between the two capital cities, underscoring the contribution of the Ghanaian diaspora to London’s multicultural identity.
“London and Accra are capital cities connected, we in London have many, many Londoners, tens of thousands of Londoners, who are proud to be Londoners but also proud of their Ghanaian origin,” he said.
He stressed the importance of transforming a painful shared history into a future of solidarity and action, referring to the planned memorial as a platform for reflection, learning, and forward-looking dialogue.
“This commemoration here is really important. Yes, we have a legacy that is sometimes negative and shameful, but that should be a springboard for going forward with optimism,” he noted.
Sir Khan expressed optimism about deepening collaboration between the two cities, adding, “I’m looking forward to us building a bridge between Londoners and the people of Accra. A bridge of friendship and collaboration.”
He thanked Mayor Allotey for his warm hospitality and leadership, and was hopeful of “ working closely” with him.
The Accra Mayor announced bold initiatives aimed at aligning the city’s development with global trends, including the introduction of electric buses from London within two years.
“These electric buses will operate within the city, helping to reduce transport fares, minimise air pollution, and attract London-based businesses to invest in Accra, thereby boosting our business sector,” he told journalists after the inspection.
He also revealed plans to implement a 24-hour economy inspired by London’s model.
“We will learn from their experience and implement improvements, such as fixing streetlights in markets to enhance security for traders and installing cameras to ensure people’s safety,” he said.
The visit marks a significant step in reviving sister-city cooperation between London and Accra, rooted in shared history and a joint commitment to sustainable urban development.
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