Aflao communities unite to combat small arms trafficking in "Silence the Gun, Save a Life" campaign

The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has led a successful two-day public education campaign in Aflao, highlighting the dangers of small arms proliferation and calling for collective action against gun violence. 

Dubbed the Silence the Gun, Save a Life campaign, the initiative aimed to change societal attitudes, build zero tolerance for illegal arms possession, and foster peace and security in Ghana.  

Aflao, a vibrant trade hub on Ghana’s border with Togo, has long been a hotspot for small arms trafficking. The illicit trade of arms and ammunition in the area has undermined peace and fueled criminal activities such as armed robbery, hijackings, kidnappings, and illegal mining. These threats have posed significant challenges to sustainable development and stability in the region.  

Community engagement and awareness  

The campaign, supported by the Saving Lives Entity (SALIENT) fund, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime (UNODC), combined stakeholder engagements, media outreach, and cultural activities to raise awareness. Local leaders, including chiefs, religious figures, and community activists, played crucial roles in mobilizing support for the campaign.  

A major highlight was the screening of a documentary vividly depicting the devastating impact of illicit small arms trafficking on communities. The documentary served as a powerful visual tool, reinforcing the campaign's core message and sparking critical discussions.  

Peace march and cultural showcase  

The campaign’s climax featured a Peace March through the streets of Aflao, with residents, civil society organizations, and security personnel demonstrating solidarity against small arms proliferation. The march culminated in a grand durbar at Victoria Park, where speeches and cultural performances underscored the importance of unity in combating gun violence.  

One of the standout moments of the durbar was a dramatic performance by local students, illustrating the harm caused by small arms misuse. Through compelling scenes, the students showcased how gun violence destabilizes communities, tears families apart, and fuels insecurity.  

Commitment to tackling small arms proliferation  

At the durbar, Mr. Samuel Williams Yeboah, Executive Secretary of NACSA, joined other key stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to addressing small arms trafficking. He emphasized the need for collaboration among local communities, authorities, and international partners to build a safer environment.  

The campaign’s success highlights the effectiveness of combining grassroots mobilization with international partnerships. Supported by the SALIENT fund, which is financed by countries including Finland, France, Germany, Japan, and Switzerland, the initiative aims to address the root causes of armed violence and ensure sustainable security and development in affected regions.  

The *Silence the Gun, Save a Life* campaign represents a significant step towards a more peaceful and secure Ghana, demonstrating how community engagement and collaboration can drive meaningful change.