Greetings {{First Name}},

We are excited to share with you the May edition of our newsletter.

In this edition, we highlight key projects and activities from the month of June that continue to advance our mission of promoting peace and human security for all.

FOSDA Calls for Stronger Action to Prevent the Diversion of Small Arms and Light Weapons

During the Ninth Biennial Meeting of States (BMS9) on the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons (UNPoA) and the International Tracing Instrument (ITI), FOSDA called on States to strengthen political commitment and take concrete measures to prevent the diversion of small arms and light weapons (SALW) into illicit markets. Addressing the global meeting, FOSDA Executive Director Theodora Williams Anti highlighted that weapons diversion remains a major threat to peace, security, and development, particularly across Africa, where illicit arms continue to fuel conflicts, violent extremism, and organised crime. FOSDA urged governments to strengthen arms control frameworks, improve stockpile management, enhance accountability mechanisms, and ensure effective implementation of international and regional instruments to reduce armed violence. Read more about FOSDA’s advocacy and recommendations from BMS9 here

FOSDA Emphasizes the Need for Women’s Participation and Leadership at BMS9

During the Ninth Biennial Meeting of States (BMS9) on the United Nations Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons (UNPoA) and the International Tracing Instrument (ITI), FOSDA advocated for the meaningful participation and leadership of women in disarmament, small arms control, and violence prevention efforts. The meeting, which brought together governments, civil society organisations, and international stakeholders, highlighted the need for gender-responsive approaches in addressing armed violence. Representing FOSDA, Executive Director Theodora Williams Anti emphasised that women are not only affected by armed violence but are also critical actors in peacebuilding, mediation, and security governance. FOSDA welcomed the retention of gender-responsive commitments in the BMS9 outcome document and called for stronger inclusion of women in shaping policies and programmes that promote sustainable peace and security.

Youth at the Forefront: FOSDA’s Ghana Youth Development and Enhancement Program Takes Centre Stage at the 2026 Global Youth Acceleration Week

From June 11–17, 2026, FOSDA participated in the Acceleration Week for the World Youth Development Forum held in Shanghai and Wuhan, China, representing Ghana through its Ghana Youth Development and Enhancement Program (GYDEP), funded by Oxfam. Selected as one of the Excellence Programs of the 2026 Action Plan for Global Youth Development, GYDEP joined 200 youth development initiatives from around the world under the theme “Youth Drive Development for a Better World.” The week provided opportunities for global exchange, innovation, and collaboration on youth development, technology, artificial intelligence, skills development, and sustainable growth.

FOSDA Expresses Concern Over the Blanket Suspension of all Active Gun Licences in Ghana

The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) has expressed concern over the suspension of all active gun licences in Ghana by the Honourable Minister of the Interior. While acknowledging the urgent need to address rising incidents of gun violence, FOSDA cautions that a blanket suspension may penalise responsible firearm holders without tackling the underlying causes of illicit arms proliferation.

FOSDA is calling for a more targeted, evidence-based approach that strengthens firearm regulation, improves accountability, and enhances public safety. The organisation further emphasises the need to review and strengthen the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons Act to address gaps in Ghana’s arms control framework.