By: Saidu Jalloh (Intern)
The Sierra Leone Commission on Arms and Ammunition in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Action Network on Small Arms has on a press release dated on the 28th September 2023 warned unlicensed gun owners to come the commission to register their guns.
The Sierra Leone Commission on Arms and Ammunitions press release called on all those who had unlicensed guns in their possession to license it, or hand them over to the Commission for further management. “Anyone found in possession of a gun and ammunition or engaging in the production and repair of shotgun without a valid license commits an offense and it is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding Ten Thousand New Leones (NLe 10,000) or imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years or to both fine and imprisonment,” SLeCAA warns.
SLeCAA and SLANSA encouraged youth to actively engage in peace advocacy, conflict resolution and the pursuit of a culture of non-violence, thus placing emphasis on the being the future custodians of peace.
SLeCAA expressed that the Africa Union (AU) had declared September every year as Amnesty Month to raise awareness on peace, disarmament and the collective commitment to silence the gun on the African continent. The commission also opined that they are in collaboration with Sierra Leone Action Network on Small Arms in commemorating the Amnesty in compliance with AU’s commitment to silence the gun on the African Continent by 2030.
The press release furthered that the Africa Union was a continental organization consisting of fifty- five (55) member states, working collectively to promote peace, security and development across Africa. Amnesty Month was one of the many initiatives aimed at achieving the AU’s goal of silencing the Gun in 2030 and fostering a peaceful and prosperous continent for all.
SLeCAA explained that the Amnesty Month is a significant initiative within the AU’s ongoing effort to promote sustainable peace and security across Africa. It is established to underscore the importance of disarmament, conflict prevention and peace building.
“This annual event encourages nations, communities and individuals to actively contribute to the goal of silencing the gun by 2030,” the release informs. The release further stated that the theme for this year’s Amnesty Month was building peace, securing their future. SLeCAA opined that the theme resonates with AU’s commitment to creating a continent where peace is paramount and scourge of conflict was replaced by prosperity and unity.
