The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) joins the global community to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, emphasising the urgent need to confront social, cultural, and security conditions that place women and girls at risk—especially in contexts where illicit weapons circulate.
Violence against women is not only a social or public health concern; it is also a security challenge. NACSA’s Open-Source Gun Incident Report shows that women and girls continue to be affected by firearm-related violence in homes and communities, with many cases involving threats, intimidation, or the escalation of disputes. These findings reinforce the need for stronger public sensitisation and efforts to curb the misuse of firearms nationwide.
Although gun violence is often viewed through a male-centred lens, NACSA’s youth engagements reveal that girls are increasingly being drawn into the small arms ecosystem—sometimes as couriers, intermediaries, or recruits influenced through emotional manipulation, peer pressure, or misleading content online. Strengthening awareness among young women remains essential to preventing their exploitation and protecting their safety.
In line with global advocacy, including the G20 call to promote positive masculinity and challenge harmful gender norms, NACSA continues to mainstream gender-responsive strategies across its programmes. Recent initiatives include a disarmament sensitisation session at Accra Girls Senior High School, where students were educated on firearm risks, early warning signs of manipulation, and the broader impacts of gun violence on personal safety and education.
NACSA is also intensifying public education in collaboration with security agencies, traditional authorities, and community groups to promote responsible firearm reporting and reduce the circulation of illicit weapons.
As we commemorate this day, NACSA calls on all Ghanaians to foster respect, empathy, and accountability in their homes, schools, and communities. Ending violence against women and girls requires collective action. NACSA reaffirms its commitment to building a Ghana where women and girls can live without fear, and where reducing illicit arms contributes to lasting peace and security for all.