Interior Minister advocates stakeholder collaboration to combat small arms proliferation

The Minister of the Interior, Muntaka Mohamed-Mubarak, has underscored the need for stakeholder collaboration and coordination to combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.

Alhaji Muntaka said that this collaboration will form a critical part of promoting peace and security in Ghana and the sub-region. He said this during the three-day Regional Planning Meeting for cross-border operational training in firearms trafficking- KAFO VI held in Accra from May 28.

“The proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) is no longer just a symptom of instability; it has become a catalyst. From terrorist attacks in vulnerable border zones to violent crimes in our cities and rural communities, the presence of illicit firearms has escalated the level of threat across West Africa. These weapons do not recognize borders. They cross rivers, deserts and frontiers as they are carried by traffickers who thrive on our divisions, exploit our weaknesses and undermine our collective peace,” he said.

Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak also emphasized the vital role of traditional leaders and women as a strong advocate against illegal arms and armed violence in combating this menace.

“I strongly encourage the inclusion of more qualified women and traditional leaders in all areas—from planning to operations. The fight against organized crime cannot be effective unless it is inclusive,” he added.

Acting Executive Secretary of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Dr Adam Adamu Alhassan Bonaa called for swift passage of a long-overdue firearms control law, citing the urgent need to update the country’s outdated legal framework that is over five decades old.

“We therefore take this opportunity to reiterate the urgent need for the passage of the Arms Bill to reinforce our domestic and regional efforts and uphold our obligations under international instruments like the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons and the UN Firearms Protocol,” he said.

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