The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety, and Security has announced September 2024 as firearm amnesty month. During this period, citizens are encouraged to surrender illegal and unwanted firearms, ammunition, and armaments without the risk of prosecution.
The initiative, under the theme “Together for a Peaceful Future: Surrender Your Arms Today,” was introduced by Home Affairs Minister Dr Albert Kawana. It aims to improve public safety and reduce armed violence in Namibia.
Minister Kawana explained that the amnesty, which operates under the Arms and Ammunition Act of 1996, allows individuals to hand over firearms and ammunition at local police stations without facing legal consequences. The amnesty will end on 30 September 2024, after which individuals found in possession of illegal arms will face prosecution.
Past amnesty campaigns have shown varying levels of success. In 2021, 116 firearms and over 3 500 rounds of ammunition were surrendered. The following year saw a steep increase, with 1 293 firearms and 2 619 rounds of ammunition handed over. However, 2023 saw a decline again, with 159 firearms and 2 591 rounds of ammunition surrendered.
These surrendered items were subsequently destroyed on International Small Arms Destruction Day (held on 9 July annually), highlighting the government’s commitment to disarmament and public safety.
Namibia’s amnesty campaigns have been part of the broader African Union “Silencing the Guns” project, aimed at reducing the proliferation of illegal arms across the continent. Previous initiatives have significantly contributed to lowering the number of unregistered firearms and enhancing national security.
The Namibian Police will manage the campaign and urge all citizens to participate. By voluntarily surrendering illegal weapons, individuals can play a vital role in promoting peace and ensuring a safer future for all communities.
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