The Sierra Leone Commission on Arms and Ammunition (SLeCAA) has informed that anyone found in possession of a gun and ammunition and the production and repairs of shotgun without a valid license commits an offence and is liable, on conviction, to a fine not exceeding ten thousand new Leones (10,000) or imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years or to both such fine and imprisonment.
The statement was issued in a press release dated 3rd October, 2023. The commission in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Action Network on Small Arms is commemorating the September African Union (AU) Amnesty Month in raising awareness about peace, disarmament, and the collective commitment to “Silencing the Guns” on the African continent.
The African Union is a continental organization consisting fifty-five (55) member states, working collectively to promote peace, security, and development across Africa. Amnesty Month is one of many initiatives aimed at achieving the AU’s goals of “Silencing the Guns in 2030” and fostering a peaceful and prosperous continent for all.
The Amnesty Month is a significant initiative within the AU’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable peace and security across Africa. Established to underscore the importance of disarmament, conflict prevention, and peacebuilding, this annual event encourages nations, communities, and individuals to actively contribute to the goal of “Silencing the Guns in 2030.”
The theme for this year’s Amnesty Month is “Building Peace, Securing Our Future.” This theme resonates with the AU’s commitment to creating a continent where peace is paramount and the scourge of conflict is replaced by prosperity and unity.
The Commission hereby calls on all youth to actively engage in peace advocacy, conflict resolution, and the pursuit of a culture of non-violence, thus placing emphasis on the youth been the future custodians of peace.
By: Sheku Putka Kamara