Paragraph 1: WAANSA Ghana’s Congratulatory Message and Pledge of Support
The West Africa Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA Ghana), a prominent civil society organization dedicated to security issues, extended its heartfelt congratulations to Alhaji Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka upon his appointment as Minister of the Interior. WAANSA Ghana recognized this appointment as a testament to Alhaji Muntaka’s unwavering commitment and extensive experience in promoting national security and development. The organization expressed confidence in his leadership, particularly in navigating the complex security landscape Ghana currently faces. They pledged their full support for his initiatives and programs aimed at bolstering internal security, referencing his strong commitment expressed during parliamentary vetting. WAANSA Ghana affirmed their history of collaborative efforts with key state institutions like the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, underscoring their dedication to working alongside the Ministry of the Interior under Alhaji Muntaka’s leadership.
Paragraph 2: Addressing Pressing Security Challenges in Ghana and the ECOWAS Sub-region
WAANSA Ghana, while congratulatory, also brought to the forefront the pressing security challenges confronting Ghana and the broader ECOWAS sub-region. They highlighted the proliferation of small arms and light weapons as a key driver of internal conflicts and insecurity. Furthermore, they pointed to long-standing disputes over chieftaincy titles and land ownership, which often escalate into violence, as another significant security concern. The organization stressed the urgent need for robust security measures to effectively address these complex issues and ensure the safety and stability of the region. They placed particular emphasis on two crucial actions: prioritizing the submission of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) Implementation Cabinet Memo and accelerating the passage of the National Arms Commission Bill, 2023.
Paragraph 3: The Significance of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT)
WAANSA Ghana underscored the importance of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) as a pivotal instrument for establishing the highest possible international standards for regulating the international trade in conventional arms. The treaty aims to prevent and eradicate the illicit trade in these weapons and curtail their diversion to unauthorized actors. The ultimate goals of the ATT include contributing to international and regional peace, security, and stability; reducing human suffering; and fostering cooperation, transparency, and responsible action among states involved in the arms trade. By adhering to the ATT, nations can build confidence and collectively work towards a more secure global environment.
Paragraph 4: The Importance of the National Arms Commission Bill, 2023
WAANSA Ghana emphasized the crucial role of the National Arms Commission Bill, 2023, in addressing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons within Ghana. The bill seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for regulating and managing arms, ammunition, and related materials within the country. Its primary objectives include controlling the proliferation of these weapons, enhancing safety and security, and safeguarding lives and property. WAANSA Ghana believes that the bill’s passage will result in numerous benefits, including improved security, enhanced national reputation, and increased stakeholder ownership in the effort to combat the illicit arms trade.
Paragraph 5: Ghana’s Role in International Efforts to Control Small Arms and Light Weapons
Ghana’s involvement in international initiatives to control small arms and light weapons was highlighted. Ghana is a beneficiary of the SALIENT Trust Fund, a collaborative effort by the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crimes (UNODC). This fund aims to combat armed violence and the illicit trafficking of small arms and light weapons through a comprehensive approach that integrates sustainable security and development. Ghana’s participation in the SALIENT project further demonstrates the country’s commitment to regional and international security cooperation. Additionally, Ghana is a signatory to the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons, further solidifying its dedication to addressing this critical issue.
Paragraph 6: Implementation of the SALIENT Project and WAANSA Ghana’s Partners
The implementation of the SALIENT project in Ghana, spearheaded by WAANSA Ghana, the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, and the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, aims to bolster efforts towards passing the National Arms Commission Bill. This legislation will provide the necessary tools and mechanisms to effectively regulate the trade, possession, and transfer of small arms and light weapons within the country. WAANSA Ghana’s collaborative efforts with numerous CSOs, including the Development Institute, the West Africa Network of Journalists for Security and Development, and various other organizations focused on human security, peacebuilding, and development, demonstrate a broad-based commitment to tackling the issue of small arms proliferation and fostering a more secure and peaceful environment in Ghana and the West Africa sub-region.