Ada, Ghana, 29–30 August 2025
On 29–30 August 2025, UNREC opened the High-Level Technical Consultative Meeting towards a robust regulatory framework on small arms in Ada, Ghana.
Led by the West Africa Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA-Ghana) and convened under the Saving Lives Entity (SALIENT) Fund, the two-day meeting brought together senior government officials, parliamentarians, security institutions, civil society organisations and United Nations partners to support Ghana’s ongoing review of its legal framework on arms, in line with the Government’s Reset Agenda.
Ghana continues to confront the growing challenge of small arms and light weapons (SALW) proliferation, with serious implications for national security, public safety and socio-economic development. The number of firearms in circulation rose from 240,000 in 2004 to 2.3 million by 2014, yet only 1.2 million are legally registered, leaving a significant number outside lawful control and vulnerable to misuse by criminal networks.
As part of the Government’s Reset Agenda, a comprehensive review of the legal framework on arms control to align with Ghana’s global and regional obligations, international best practice, and to address emerging security threats has been prioritised.
This meeting provided a platform for key stakeholders to discuss, refine and align the ongoing review of the legal framework on arms with government priorities, ensuring it is fit for purpose and responsive to current and future challenges. Participants highlighted that the Arms and Ammunition Act of 1972 and the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons Act of 2007 no longer adequately reflect contemporary security realities.
Aligning arms control with the Reset Agenda
The consultation directly supported the Government of Ghana’s Reset Agenda, which prioritises: reducing the illicit proliferation of SALW, aligning national legislation with international best practice, empowering the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA), introducing competency training and testing as a prerequisite for firearm ownership.
An inclusive and multi-stakeholder approach
The meeting adopted a participatory and inclusive methodology, enabling active contributions from: Ministers of State and policy makers, Parliament and the Office of the Attorney General, NACSA and national security institutions, the Ghana Boundary Commission, civil society organisations, United Nations partners, including UNDP and UNODC.
By 2026, the process is expected to result in a revised draft Small Arms Bill, reflecting international standards and Ghana’s security and development priorities, and ready to advance within the national legislative process.
The High-Level Technical Consultative Meeting marked a critical milestone in Ghana’s efforts to strengthen arms control, protect communities, and advance sustainable development.
UNREC, as the African branch of UNODA, will continue to support Ghana’s legal reform process on small arms, through the Saving Lives Entity (SALIENT) Fund and in coordination with partners, to strengthen national and regional security.
