SMALL ARMS COMMISSION ROLLS OUT ‘SILENCE THE GUN, SAVE A LIFE’ CAMPAIGN

The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons has launched a nationwide public education drive aimed at tackling the growing threat of small arms proliferation in Ghana.

Dubbed “Silence the Gun, Save a Life,” the campaign is engaging students at Junior High Schools and tertiary institutions on the dangers of gun violence, illegal arms possession, and the need to embrace non-violent approaches to conflict resolution.

According to the Commission, young people remain a critical focus group because they are particularly vulnerable to the influence of violence and vigilantism. The programme seeks to foster zero tolerance for illegal firearms while raising awareness about the devastating impact of illicit weapons on communities.

A recent Commission report revealed that the Ashanti Region records the highest levels of gun violence and proliferation nationwide. Addressing students in Kumasi, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Adam Adamu Alhassan Bonaa, urged citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious gun-related activities.

“I urge the public to remain alert within their communities and report any suspicious individuals who possess firearms for unlawful or criminal purposes. Even if you suspect a neighbour has a weapon, notify the Commission so we can verify whether it is licensed or not,” Dr. Bonaa advised.

He further reminded licensed gun holders to comply with regulations, stressing that permits do not give the right to brandish or carry firearms in public spaces.

The Commission emphasised that public cooperation is vital to breaking the cycle of violence, warning that silence and indifference only embolden perpetrators.