Ghana, through the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons and with funding support from the European Union, successfully hosted the second regional Train-the-Trainers Workshop under the Arms Trade Treaty Implementation Support Project (ATT-ISP) from 5–9 May 2025 in Accra.
Bringing together expert participants from government institutions and Civil Society Organizations drawn from Ghana, Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Gambia, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Mali, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Togo, the workshop aimed to enhance national and regional capacity for effective and sustainable ATT implementation. Participants received advanced training in key areas of ATT implementation, including legislative frameworks, risk assessment, reporting obligations, and border control measures. The workshop also sought to create a pool of qualified trainers who can replicate and expand capacity-building efforts within their respective countries and regions.
In his opening remarks, the Deputy Minister for the Interior, Hon. Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, described the workshop as “a timely and strategic initiative to strengthen national control systems and deepen regional collaboration.” He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to aligning its legislative framework with ATT obligations, citing progress on the Draft Arms Bill and a National Control List expected to be submitted to Cabinet.
“This workshop was designed with purpose and intent. We are training trainers — multipliers who will take this knowledge back home and create ripple effects across borders.” he noted.
The programme featured a robust mix of technical and strategic modules, including record-keeping, brokering controls, diversion prevention and national legislation reforms. It also addressed human-centered skills such as communication and active listening which are essential tools for influencing mindsets and driving institutional reform.
“Implementing the ATT is not just about systems — it’s about people. It’s about building consensus, navigating political realities and driving change.” Hon. Terlabi emphasized. He also expressed appreciation to the ATT Secretariat, UNIDIR and other global partners for their continued support.
Dr. Adam Bonaa, Executive Secretary of the Small Arms Commission, underscored the urgency of the mission.
“Nearly 9 in 10 violent crimes in Ghana today involve illicit firearms. We must act decisively to prevent these weapons from falling into the wrong hands. Passing the Bill is not just a legal obligation — it is a public safety imperative.” he said.
As the workshop progressed, participants engaged in dynamic teach-back sessions focused on ATT provisions such as transits, transshipments and the prevention of gender-based violence. These sessions sharpened facilitation skills and deepened understanding of the Treaty’s practical application.
The workshop drew on the expertise of international partners including the ATT Secretariat, UNIDIR and IANSA, enriching the learning process with global perspectives and tested strategies.
The ATT-ISP is a global initiative designed to support State Parties in fulfilling their treaty obligations. Ghana’s leadership in hosting this workshop underscores the nation’s dedication to strengthening collective security across the continent and building sustainable frameworks for effective arms control.
As the event concluded, participants left inspired and equipped to translate new knowledge into action back home.
“The true impact of this workshop will be measured not by the quality of the presentations, but by the quality of the action that follows. Let us make that action count.” — Hon. Terlabi
