Ghana is cracking down on firearms at public events. The Interior Ministry has imposed a temporary ban on guns at festivals, funerals, and other celebrations. This move coincides with a six-week amnesty allowing people to hand in illegal weapons without facing prosecution.
The amnesty runs from December 1 to January 15. During this period, authorities will monitor all events to prevent guns from being displayed, whether licensed or not. Regional ministers, local chiefs, and opinion leaders have been tasked with enforcing the rules.
Officials say the crackdown responds to a growing problem: traditional ceremonial gunpowder has increasingly been replaced by real firearms, including pistols, rifles, and even AK-47s at public gatherings. This trend has put communities at serious risk.
In addition, new permits for firearms importation and sales have been suspended until the amnesty ends. Anyone hoping to start a gun business or acquire a new license will have to wait until mid-January.
The Ministry describes the measures as a vital step toward curbing illegal arms, ensuring public safety, and controlling reckless firearm use during celebrations.
