Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security has declared September as Firearm Amnesty Month, urging citizens to voluntarily hand over illegal firearms, ammunition and explosives.
The campaign was officially launched in Windhoek on Friday. Speaking on behalf of the minister, Inspector General of the Namibian Police (NamPol), Joseph Shikongo, emphasised the importance of public cooperation in efforts to promote peace and security.
Shikongo said that individuals who surrender illegal weapons during the amnesty period will not face prosecution. However, those found in possession of illegal firearms after September will face legal action.
The initiative is part of a continent-wide African Union (AU) campaign to silence guns and foster peace. Originally set to conclude in 2020, the programme has been extended to 2030 under Agenda 2063, which seeks to end armed conflict, gender-based violence and genocide.
The amnesty period runs from 1 to 30 September 2025, and citizens are encouraged to hand in any illegal or unwanted weapons at their nearest police station.
Photo: File
