Small Arms Commission warns against gun displays ahead of fire festival
The Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons has advised against the display and misuse of firearms ahead of this year’s Fire Festival (Bugum Chugu), urging celebrants to uphold safety and legality during the cherished cultural event.
In a public notice signed by Acting Executive Secretary Dr. Adam Bonaa, the Commission cautioned against the brandishing of sophisticated weapons and warned that unauthorized possession and reckless discharge of firearms remain serious criminal offences under Ghanaian law.
“The Fire Festival is a cherished cultural event meant to foster unity, joy, and tradition—not violence or fear,” the statement read. “The reckless use of firearms during celebrations poses grave risks, including accidental shootings, injuries, and fatalities.”
The Commission emphasised that firearms are not symbolic instruments of celebration, and called on celebrants, especially in the northern regions where the festival is predominantly observed—to shun the use of guns to mark the occasion.
“We remind the public that: firearms are not toys, their misuse endangers lives. Unauthorized possession and brandishing of guns are illegal and punishable by law. Celebrate responsibly, uphold the true spirit of the festival without violence,” the advisory stated.
The Fire Festival, rooted in Dagbon history and celebrated across the Northern, North East, Savannah, and Upper East Regions, is one of the country’s most vibrant traditional events. It features processions with fire torches, drumming, dancing, and communal festivities.
However, in recent years, concerns have grown over the increasing use of small arms, including AK-47s and locally manufactured guns, during the celebration, leading to injuries, public fear, and even fatalities in some cases.
Dr. Bonaa called on the public to report any suspicious activity involving weapons to law enforcement agencies and encouraged community leaders, traditional authorities, and youth groups to support the campaign for a peaceful and secure celebration.
“Let us honor our traditions by promoting safety and harmony. Together, we can ensure a peaceful and memorable Fire Festival,” the statement concluded.
The Commission’s caution forms part of a broader national effort to curb the proliferation and misuse of small arms, particularly in regions with histories of chieftaincy disputes and communal tensions.