The Government of Ghana is reportedly considering extending the nationwide Gun Amnesty Programme, following calls from traditional leaders, community stakeholders, and civil society groups for more time to allow the voluntary surrender of illegal and unregistered firearms.
Deputy Minister for the Interior, Ebenezer Okletey Terlabi, confirmed that the Interior Ministry is reviewing these requests, but noted that the current deadline of 15th January 2026 remains in force.
The programme, which allows holders of illegal, unregistered, or unwanted firearms to surrender them without fear of arrest, prosecution, or penalty, was launched to curb gun-related violence and improve national security.
Officials say the calls for an extension are motivated by practical challenges faced by some communities, including limited awareness of the amnesty, difficulty accessing collection points, and time constraints.
Stakeholders argue that extending the programme would give more citizens the opportunity to comply voluntarily, strengthening public safety efforts across the country.
The Interior Ministry, however, continues to urge all holders of illegal firearms to take advantage of the remaining days of the amnesty period.
After the deadline, authorities have warned that possession of unregistered weapons will be treated as a criminal offence, with strict enforcement and prosecution under existing firearms laws.
Security experts say the amnesty programme is a critical tool for reducing armed violence, enhancing citizen safety, and allowing security agencies to track and control firearms in the country.
The Ministry is expected to make a formal announcement should any extension be approved.