Ashanti Regional Peace Council Engages Blacksmith Association on Peace and Arms Control
The Ashanti Regional Peace Council (ARPC), in collaboration with the Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW), has organized a targeted outreach and sensitization programme for members of the Ashanti Regional Blacksmith Association at the Kumasi Cultural Centre on Monday, 20th April 2026.
The engagement formed part of ongoing efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and prevent the illegal possession and proliferation of small arms and light weapons within communities.
The programme aimed to raise awareness among blacksmiths on the dangers and legal consequences associated with the unauthorized production, modification, and circulation of weapons. It also sought to encourage responsible and ethical practices within the trade, while strengthening collaboration between artisans, security agencies, and local authorities.
In his address, the Regional Executive Secretary of ARPC, Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Badu Amoah, emphasized the critical role blacksmiths play in society and urged them to become active agents of peace within their communities. He highlighted that peaceful coexistence is fundamental to sustainable development and encouraged participants to promote dialogue and non-violence in resolving disputes. He further called on members to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could threaten peace and security.
The Regional Director of the Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission, Mr. Emmanuel Kenneth Oduro, provided detailed insights into the legal framework governing arms production in Ghana. He cautioned participants against engaging in illegal arms fabrication and stressed that violations could result in severe legal consequences, including arrest and imprisonment. He also underscored the importance of collaboration in strengthening community surveillance and early warning systems.
Participants expressed their commitment to complying with existing regulations and pledged to support efforts aimed at preventing arms-related crimes. They also appealed for continuous education and capacity-building initiatives to help them operate responsibly while sustaining their livelihoods.
The programme reinforced the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in promoting peace and security, with blacksmiths identified as key partners in preventing the spread of illegal weapons and fostering safer communities.
Participating Institutions included:
- Ashanti Regional Peace Council (ARPC)
- Small Arms and Light Weapons Commission (SALW)
- Ashanti Regional Blacksmith Association
This initiative highlights the Council’s commitment to proactive peacebuilding and community-based approaches to conflict prevention across the region.
