As part of ongoing efforts to reduce the proliferation of illicit firearms and the high incidence of gun related violence in the country through the Gun Amnesty Programme (GAP), the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) will host a stakeholder engagement and an Amnesty Walk in Wa in the Upper West Region. These activities form a key part of the GAP’s public education and awareness creation strategy, aimed at building trust, encouraging voluntary surrender and strengthening community ownership of the Gun Amnesty Programme.
The engagement and walk will bring together local government officials, security agencies, traditional authorities, religious leaders, youth and women’s groups, civil society organisations, and the media. These groups play a central role in shaping attitudes, resolving conflicts and influencing behaviour at the community level. Their participation is therefore essential to the success of the Gun Amnesty Programme.
The Gun Amnesty Programme which runs from 1st December, 2025 to 15th January, 2026 provides a lawful window for individuals in possession of illicit and unregistered firearms and ammunition to surrender them without fear of interrogation, arrest or prosecution. The GAP is grounded on a collective call for Ghanaians to silence the guns to save our own lives.
The stakeholder engagement in Wa will create space for open discussion on the objectives of the GAP, the procedures for surrendering firearms, and the broader risks posed by the proliferation of illicit firearms. Participants will also have the opportunity to share local perspectives on the causes of gun-related violence and propose practical, community-led solutions that can support long-term peace and safety.
Complementing the dialogue session, the Amnesty Walk will serve as a visible, public demonstration of collective commitment to a peaceful, safe and gun-violence-free Ghana. The walk is intended to carry a clear message through the streets of Wa: “Let’s silence the Guns for Our Own Safety”. By walking together, participants signal shared responsibility for safety and reinforce the call for voluntary surrender of illicit firearms.
The Commission recognises that gun-related challenges are not solved by enforcement alone but through consistent engagement, credible information sharing and the active involvement of trusted local voices. Traditional and religious leaders, in particular, have a unique influence in promoting non-violence and lawful conduct, while youth groups are critical partners in shaping the future.
This engagement in the Upper West Region is the first of a series of similar engagements to be conducted across the country. It therefore reflects the Commission’s commitment to inclusive, community-focused approaches in the fight against the proliferation of illicit firearms and gun-related violence. It also aligns with national efforts to prevent violent crime, curb the misuse of firearms and promote a gun-violence-free Ghana.
Members of the public are encouraged to take advantage of the Gun Amnesty Programme to either surrender their illicit firearms and ammunition or register them at any Police District near them. Doing so contributes directly to safer homes, safer neighbourhoods and a more secure Ghana.
The Commission extends its appreciation to all stakeholders, partners and residents of Wa for their cooperation and support. Together, through dialogue, responsible action and shared commitment, we can reduce the risks associated with illicit firearms and strengthen the foundations of peace and development in our communities.
Guns down, Ghana up!