The Ministry of the Interior has confirmed that the government is currently undertaking measures to implement the National Arms Bill, aimed at curbing the unauthorized trade of firearms.
Speaking at the review meeting of the National Arms Bill, the Deputy Minister for the Interior, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, stressed the government’s commitment to enacting the proposed legislation to enhance arms control and bolster national security.
The bill aims to address the growing threats posed by the proliferation of small arms, their misuse, and the rise of transnational crime and terrorism in the West African sub-region.
He emphasized the urgent need for a robust National Arms Bill.
“The proliferation of small arms, coupled with increasing criminal sophistication, demands an overhaul of our regulatory framework. Ghana cannot afford to remain vulnerable due to outdated and porous laws,” the Deputy Minister stated
The Deputy Minister called for a thorough, clause-by-clause review to ensure the bill is clear, practical, and enforceable.
He urged participants to provide candid and constructive input to create a balanced framework that addresses contemporary challenges.
He also emphasised the importance of producing a law that protects citizens, empowers institutions, and reinforces Ghana’s reputation as a peaceful and stable nation.
“Our resolve must match the urgency of making Ghana a gun-violence-free and safe country,” he stated.
The Acting Executive Secretary of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Dr. Adam Bonaa, stressed the need for harmonised legislation to effectively regulate small arms and light weapons in Ghana.
According to him, the bill is designed to strengthen regulatory frameworks, promote accountability among stakeholders, and ultimately enhance national security.
