The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has taken a significant step towards enhancing national security with a 2-day capacity-building retreat in Kumasi. The retreat is under the theme “Strengthening Capacities of National Institutions for Weapons and Ammunition Collection and Control.” Taking place at Miklin Hotel, the retreat brought together NACSA’s Management Team and 54 Regional and Border Officers for intensive training.
With support from UNDP and key partners; Denmark, Luxembourg and the Republic of Korea, the programme aims to equip NACSA staff with technical knowledge in weapons and ammunition destruction and control, alongside leadership, communication and team-building skills—all essential for effective arms control and inter-agency collaboration.
Speaking at the retreat, the Ag. Executive Secretary, Dr. Adam Bonaa, emphasised the critical role of the training in addressing security challenges. “This initiative marks a major step in strengthening our collective efforts to enhance weapons and ammunition control—an essential component of our national security and stability. The proliferation of arms and ammunition poses serious threats, enabling crime, fueling conflict and undermining peace-building efforts in Ghana,” he stated.
Dr. Bonaa reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the passage of the Arms Bill, a crucial legislative reform that will tighten control of illicit weapons, close existing legal loopholes and enhance the Commission’s operational mandate. He expressed hope that the Bill would be passed by mid-year, marking a significant step towards strengthening arms control measures in Ghana.
On institutional development, he announced the appointment of Mr. Salam Mohammed Gali by H.E. John Dramani Mahama, as Ag. Deputy Executive Secretary of NACSA, the first in the Commission’s history. This appointment underscores the President’s strong commitment to strengthening NACSA’s leadership and impact.
Additionally, Dr. Bonaa highlighted a significant advancement in the Commission’s operations—securing new offices at the Office of the President Annex, a feat facilitated through the efforts of the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak. As part of efforts to enhance security, he also announced the installation of CCTVs in all regional and border offices to strengthen monitoring systems and improve the safety of all staff at work.
This milestone retreat not only strengthens NACSA’s internal capacities but also reinforces its unwavering commitment to combating small arms proliferation and promoting peace in Ghana.
Acknowledging recent security concerns, Dr. Bonaa stated that Commission will take practical steps to reduce illicit weapons in circulation in the country. He emphasized that without illicit weapons, criminal activities such as illegal mining, armed robberies and ‘landguardism’ would reduce drastically and forestall the incidence of tragic killings such as the unfortunate shooting and killing of the military officer at Bawku without any provocation.
He extended his condolences to the family and friends of the late Army Officer and the entire Ghana Armed Forces for the tragic loss.