Greater Accra has emerged as the top region in firearm surrenders under Ghana's ongoing Gun Amnesty Programme, according to the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA).
The voluntary initiative, which began on December 1, offers individuals the opportunity to register or hand in illegal or unregistered weapons without fear of arrest or prosecution. The goal is to quietly remove firearms from communities and reduce the risks associated with illegal gun possession.
### Encouraging Participation in the Gun Amnesty Program
Dr. Bonaa, Executive Secretary of NACSA, provided an update on the programme during a visit to the National Mosque in Accra on December 26, 2025. He emphasized the importance of community participation in the initiative, especially among the Muslim population. The visit was part of a broader outreach effort to engage more people before the programme ends on January 15, 2026.
Dr. Bonaa met with the National Chief Imam, whose support is seen as crucial in promoting the gun amnesty. The Chief Imam agreed to encourage worshippers and community leaders to voluntarily surrender illegal weapons and engage in peace-promoting dialogue.
### Aims of the Amnesty Program
The Gun Amnesty Programme comes at a time when concerns about small arms and their impact on community safety are growing. The initiative allows people to surrender weapons in a safe and confidential manner, without the fear of punishment, with the ultimate aim of reducing violence and accidental harm.
Authorities hope that this approach will also help rebuild trust between local communities and security agencies. Cooperation has been particularly strong in Greater Accra, where consistent efforts by security officials, alongside engagement with local leaders, have helped drive the success of the program.
### Greater Accra Tops Firearm Surrenders
Dr. Bonaa confirmed that Greater Accra is leading the nation in the number of firearms surrendered, with significant support from local security commanders. The process is being handled with strict confidentiality, ensuring that no individual is arrested or questioned during the surrender process.
“The Greater Accra Region is currently leading in terms of arms surrendered under the amnesty programme, with the support of the security commanders,” Dr. Bonaa told journalists.
### Community Engagement and Security
With increasing concerns about small arms in neighborhoods, the Gun Amnesty Programme serves as a key initiative in improving public safety. By providing a window for individuals to voluntarily surrender weapons, the government aims to reduce the threat of violence and increase community confidence in security agencies.
Police and security officials have reiterated that the process is completely confidential and free from legal consequences, encouraging more people to participate in the effort.
### Looking Ahead
The Gun Amnesty Programme continues until January 15, 2026, and authorities are hopeful that more individuals, particularly in high-risk areas, will take the opportunity to contribute to a safer and more peaceful environment.
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