Ghana’s government has rolled out a nationwide gun amnesty programme running until January 15, 2026, aimed at encouraging the voluntary surrender of all illicit firearms as part of efforts to strengthen national security and prevent communal violence.
The initiative guarantees that individuals who hand over illegal weapons will not be arrested, questioned or prosecuted, regardless of how the firearms were acquired.
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Early results from the Upper West region suggest growing public cooperation.
Since the programme began on December 1, authorities have retrieved 101 illicit firearms.
While security officials describe this as encouraging, they insist it represents only a fraction of the weapons believed to be in circulation.
Extensive public sensitisation has accompanied the exercise, including marches through the streets of Wa, engagement with traditional leaders and coordination among security agencies, civil society organisations and the media.
Officials say the amnesty is critical to preventing conflicts that often escalate due to the availability of weapons, particularly in areas with a history of communal tensions.
Beyond disarmament, the programme also seeks to promote accountability through firearm registration and responsible ownership.
The government has made it clear that the amnesty period will be followed by strict enforcement.
After January 15, 2026, anyone found in possession of illegal or unregistered firearms will face arrest and prosecution, with penalties that could include up to 15 years in prison.
As part of complementary measures, the firing of guns at funerals, festivals and other public events has been temporarily banned to reduce accidents and allow authorities to take stock of weapons in communities during the amnesty period.
