Immediate Release Accra, 24rd January, 2024
FOSDA COMMENDS EXTENSION OF GHANA GUN AMNESTY PROGRAMME
The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) commends the Ministry of the Interior for extending Ghana’s Gun Amnesty Programme to 30 January 2026. This
extension is timely and necessary to enhance the effectiveness of national efforts to curb the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons across the country.

FOSDA particularly welcomes this intervention against the backdrop of the recent spike in
armed violence nationwide. Findings from FOSDA’s 2025 Violent Incidents Monitoring
indicate a steady increase in gun-related incidents across the first three quarters of the year; 28 incidents in the first quarter, 58 in the second quarter, and 84 in the third quarter,
followed by a decline to 39 incidents in the fourth quarter. This reduction can be attributed to heightened security operations, including increased police visibility during the festive season and the ongoing Gun Amnesty Programme.

FOSDA believes that extending the amnesty period will allow for wider dissemination of
information, reach underserved communities, and provide additional opportunity for
individuals who may be hesitant or fearful to voluntarily surrender illicit firearms.
We further call on security agencies, particularly the Ghana Police Service, to sustain and
strengthen their visibility, professionalism, and operational effectiveness throughout the
amnesty period. Enhanced cooperation and trust between law enforcement and citizens remain critical to the success of this initiative.

FOSDA urges all stakeholders including government, security agencies, traditional and
community leaders, civil society organisations, youth groups, and citizens to actively support the Gun Amnesty Programme. Through collective responsibility and coordinated action, Ghana can advance toward a safer and more peaceful society for the benefit of all.

End
Theodora W. Anti
Executive Director
Contact No. 0243203060
Email: Theodora@fosda.or