Archbishop Backs £100m Slavery Fund for Affected Communities 2026

The Archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullally, has reaffirmed the Church of England's commitment to a £100m fund for communities affected by transatlantic chattel slavery, expressing deep lament during a visit to Cape Coast Castle in Ghana. This historic pledge aims to address the lasting harm caused by the Church's historical involvement in the slave trade.

Archbishop's Historic Visit to Cape Coast Castle

During her 10-day tour of Ghana and Cameroon, Archbishop Mullally visited the dungeons where thousands of enslaved Africans were held before being shipped across the Atlantic. She described the experience as "impossible not to feel the weight of the immense evil that drove the transatlantic slave trade." The visit included a prayer in the former Anglican chapel above the dungeons and a stop at the "Door of Return," formerly known as the "Door of No Return."

The archbishop's journey began in Accra, where she visited four local parishes and delivered a sermon at St Joseph the Worker Anglican church. The service was officiated by an all-female clergy, marking a significant moment for the Anglican Church in Ghana.

The £100m Fund: Purpose and Impact

The £100m fund, announced earlier this year, is designed to support communities directly affected by the legacy of enslavement. The Church of England has acknowledged its historical role in the slave trade, and this fund represents a tangible step toward reparative justice.

The fund is part of a broader movement, including Ghana's Year of Return initiative, which has boosted tourism and diaspora engagement since 2019.

Key Takeaways from the Archbishop's Pledge

• Reaffirmation of the £100m commitment to affected communities.
• Historical acknowledgment of the Church's role in slavery.
• Focus on sustainable development and reparative justice.
• Collaboration with local leaders and parishes in West Africa.
• Potential model for other institutions with colonial legacies.

Reactions and Next Steps

Local leaders and community representatives have welcomed the archbishop's visit and the renewed commitment. However, some activists argue that more needs to be done to ensure the funds reach grassroots organizations effectively.

The Church of England plans to establish a governance framework to oversee the fund's distribution, ensuring transparency and accountability. The archbishop's visit marks a critical step in building trust and fostering long-term partnerships.

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