“Destruction of illegal firearms is critical to preserving Ghana’s peace, security and national development” – Chief of Staff

Chief of Staff, Hon. Julius Debrah, has underscored the importance of destroying illicit firearms, describing the exercise as a vital measure in safeguarding Ghana’s peace, security and national development.

Speaking at the 8th National Small Arms Destruction Ceremony held at the Police Depot in Tesano, Accra, to mark the United Nations International Small Arms Destruction Day, Mr. Debrah said the elimination of illegal weapons reflects the Government’s firm commitment to ensuring that illicit firearms do not find their way into Ghanaian communities.

He stressed that the fight against the proliferation of small arms and light weapons requires sustained cooperation among government institutions, security agencies, civil society, traditional authorities and the general public.

According to him, collective action remains the most effective strategy for preventing illegal firearms from fueling crime and insecurity.

The Chief of Staff commended Ghanaians for responding positively to the national Gun Amnesty Programme, which led to the voluntary surrender of more than 4,000 firearms.

He encouraged the public to continue supporting law enforcement agencies by providing information on the illegal possession, manufacture and trafficking of firearms.

Also addressing the ceremony, the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, reaffirmed the Government’s resolve to strengthen national security through sustained efforts to curb the spread of illicit weapons across the country.

He noted that every firearm destroyed represents one less weapon available to armed robbers, violent extremists, political vigilantes and other criminal elements capable of disrupting public safety and national stability.

Hon. Muntaka observed that while Ghana continues to enjoy a reputation as one of Africa’s most peaceful nations, the growing circulation of illicit small arms within the West African sub-region poses a significant security threat, contributing to organised crime, armed conflicts, violent extremism and cross-border criminal activities.

He therefore called on citizens, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations and the media to intensify public education and remain vigilant in supporting national efforts to eliminate illegal firearms and promote a lasting culture of peace.

The annual Small Arms Destruction Ceremony forms part of Ghana’s commitment to international efforts aimed at reducing the circulation of illicit weapons and strengthening public safety through responsible arms control.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith