Ghana, through the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA), hosts this year’s Annual Coordination Meeting of National Commissions on Small Arms for ECOWAS Member States.
The three-day high-level gathering, organized by the ECOWAS Commission, aims to review, harmonize, and strengthen regional efforts toward the effective implementation of the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW).
The meeting held under the theme “Countering Improvised Explosive Devices and addressing Craft Weapons production in the ECOWAS Region” brought together Heads of National Commissions, technical experts, and development partners to deliberate on key security challenges and refine collective responses.
Speaking during the event on Wednesday in Accra, the Executive Secretary of NACSA, Dr. Bona, emphasized the critical need for deeper regional cooperation in addressing the proliferation of small arms and emerging security threats.
He noted that the security of Ghana is closely linked to that of its neighbours, stating that “what happens in neighbouring countries could happen in Ghana, because our destinies are tied together.”
Dr. Bonaa highlighted ongoing national initiatives aimed at reducing illicit weapons circulation, including the upcoming Gun Amnesty Programme, the proposed Arms Bill, and the introduction of a National Control List designed to strengthen Ghana’s regulatory and legal regime.
He expressed optimism that the meeting would conclude with renewed commitment and enhanced collaboration among National Commissions.
Discussions at the meeting include the review and validation of the Draft Regional Strategy on Countering Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and the Study and Guideline on the Control of Craft Weapons.
Participants are also working toward standardizing documentation for the ECOWAS Exemption Certificate, introducing a consultancy on harmonising the End User Certificate, and enhancing coordinated implementation of the ECOWAS SALW Convention across member states.
The event highlights the region’s determination to tackle the escalating challenges of IEDs, craft weapon proliferation, and illicit arms trafficking, while reinforcing collective security efforts across West Africa.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
