As part of ongoing efforts to bolster border security and curb the illicit flow of small arms into Ghana, the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) engaged key stakeholders at Tema Port to reinforce collaboration for enhanced security measures.
The newly appointed Acting Executive Secretary, Dr. Adam Bonaa, and Acting Deputy Executive Secretary, Mr. Mohammed Salam Gali, alongside management members, including Deputy Director of PPME, Mr. Gyebi Asante, and Acting Head of Programmes, Mr. Abdul Jaleel Suleiman paid a courtesy call on the Acting Director-General of the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), Brig. Gen. Tanye-Kulono. The visit aimed to officially introduce the Commission and discuss collaboration and support to address arms trafficking at the Port.
As one of Ghana’s most critical entry points, the Tema Port plays a vital role in national security efforts. NACSA’s engagement, therefore, reinforced its commitment to working closely with port authorities to prevent trafficking of arms into the country.
A key highlight of the visit was a familiarization tour of port operations, providing the Team with deeper insights into existing security protocols. By understanding these measures firsthand, NACSA aimed to better align its strategies with ongoing efforts, ensuring stronger coordination with security agencies.
In discussions with GPHA, Dr. Adam Bonaa emphasized the importance of NACSA’s presence at all entry and exit points across Ghana to strengthen its operations in combating arms trafficking. In line with this, NACSA will work closely with the Management of GPHA to secure office space at the Takoradi Port, further enhancing national border security efforts. Brig. Gen. Tanye-Kulono reaffirmed GPHA’s commitment to the existing collaboration, highlighting its dedication to intelligence-sharing, risk assessment, joint operations, and community engagement.
The NACSA delegation also held a meeting with the Sector Commander of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority at the Tema Port, Ms. Theresa Potakey, and the Second-In-Command, Mr. Philip P. Timbilla. Discussions centered on strengthening intelligence-sharing mechanisms and enhancing joint security efforts to combat arms trafficking. “As Ghana facilitates trade, it must equally prioritize health and safety, I offer my full support to NACSA and its Officers at the Port”. Ms. Potakey emphasized, underscoring the need for a robust partnership between Customs and NACSA.
Calling on their support, Dr. Bonaa highlighted the urgent need for the passage of the Arms Bill, which will introduce stricter regulations to control the proliferation of illicit small arms in the country. This engagement underscores NACSA’s unwavering commitment to building strong partnerships with relevant stakeholders. Through continuous collaboration and strategic action, NACSA remains steadfast in its mission to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, ensuring a safer and more secure Ghana.
