Accra: Mr James Gunu, the Volta Regional Minister, has urged an extension of the Gun Amnesty Programme to the end of January 2026 to broaden public participation and awareness. He articulated this during a visit by the Gun Amnesty Programme Train to the Volta Region, led by Dr Adam Bonaa, Executive Secretary of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr Gunu emphasized that extending the programme aligns with the government's 'resetting agenda' and is crucial for enhancing public education and stakeholder engagement. He highlighted the dangers unregulated gun ownership poses to peace, security, and development, stating, "We cannot allow people to own guns indiscriminately and create insecurity and instability in our country and the Volta Region."
The Regional Minister, since taking office, has focused on a three-point agenda, prioritizing peace and security to make the Volta Region an attractive investment destination. He noted that the amnesty programme would foster a peaceful environment, crucial for regional development, amid recent incidents of firearm discharges at public events.
Mr Gunu called for stronger collaboration with the Regional House of Chiefs and traditional authorities to manage gun use during cultural events, warning that traditional gunfire celebrations could undermine progress. He also highlighted local firearm craftsmanship in the region, advocating for national dialogue on regulating and harnessing such skills to benefit the economy safely.
In response, Dr Adam Bonaa mentioned that the Commission is working on regularizing local gunsmithing as part of broader legal reforms on firearms control. He acknowledged the historical significance of indigenous firearm production and its occasional support to security agencies.
Dr Bonaa confirmed that the Minister of the Interior is considering these issues in upcoming legal reforms. He emphasized the importance of surrendering illicit weapons, noting that failure to do so would lead to legal consequences. He also acknowledged the encouraging response to the amnesty, with many weapons surrendered, and condemned recent gun-related disturbances in the region.
The nationwide Gun Amnesty Programme, initiated by the Minister of the Interior, Mr Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, commenced on December 1, 2025, and is set to conclude on January 15, 2026. The initiative aims to reduce gun violence by allowing individuals to surrender illegal firearms without fear of prosecution, thus enhancing public safety.