The Deputy Minister for the Interior, Mr Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, has called for stronger political leadership and a more holistic approach to weapons and ammunition management to prevent the escalation of violent conflicts and extremism across the Gulf of Guinea and the broader West and Central African region.
Delivering the keynote address at the Regional Dialogue on Weapons and Ammunition Management at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre (KAIPTC) in Accra, Mr Terlabi warned that the unchecked proliferation of small arms, light weapons, and their ammunition continues to pose a serious threat to peace and stability.
“These illicit flows fuel armed violence, crime, insurgency, and insecurity, undermining governance, development, and community stability,” he added.
Mr Terlabi noted that Ghana, like many countries in the sub-region, was affected by neighbourhood violence and the misuse of firearms, making regional dialogue and peer learning critical tools for conflict prevention.
He disclosed that the government was taking steps to address legislative gaps in arms control and recently concluded a nationwide Gun Amnesty Programme, which encouraged the voluntary surrender of unlicensed firearms without fear of prosecution.
The programme, he explained, forms part of broader efforts to strengthen national and regional mechanisms for arms management and public safety.
The African Union High Representative on Silencing the Guns, Dr Ibn Chambas, commended countries in the region for improved coordination in addressing arms proliferation.
He appreciated the ongoing arms control programmes and disarmament initiatives, but stressed the need for practical and consistent enforcement.
Dr Chambas urged governments to deepen community engagement by involving traditional authorities, religious leaders, and community liaison officers as agents of change.
He further advocated non-extremist approaches to security, prison reforms, sustained dialogue, and the development of clear, actionable plans to enhance weapons and ammunition management across the region.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
