Doha:The Executive Secretary of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Dr. Adam Bonaa, has highlighted the regulatory challenges facing the use of muskets at cultural festivals in Ghana. A new Small Arms Bill is currently being processed to enhance oversight of such activities.
According to Ghana Web, Dr. Bonaa noted that while some weapons used during traditional celebrations are licensed, authorities are still working to determine the legal status of others. The government has placed a temporary ban on the use of firearms at celebratory events to address these concerns.
In an interview on GhanaWeb TV, Dr. Bonaa acknowledged the cultural significance of using guns during events, citing the deep-rooted traditions in regions such as Issa in the Upper West Region. He emphasized that completely abolishing the practice would be challenging due to its cultural importance.
Dr. Bonaa stressed the necessity of stronger regulations, especially concerning the firing of muskets into the air during festivals. He explained that the proposed Small Arms Bill aims to bring such activities under a more formal regulatory framework, ensuring better control and monitoring.
He also pointed out that while some weapons are licensed, the Commission is still tracking others to verify their compliance with legal standards. Dr. Bonaa advised against abrupt measures to resolve the cultural practice, advocating instead for a gradual but expedited approach to regulation.
Highlighting the long-term dangers posed by firearms, Dr. Bonaa mentioned an investigation where a weapon used in a crime was traced back to its production during the First World War, having passed through 16 countries before arriving in Ghana. This example underscores the need for vigilant regulation and tracking.
Dr. Bonaa concluded by calling for increased support and staffing for the Commission to bolster monitoring efforts, which are crucial for maintaining peace and security in Ghana.