The International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls (VAWAG) also dubbed White Ribbon Day is globally recognised as a time to intensify actions and policies aimed at eradicating gender-based violence (GBV).
Held on 25 November, White Ribbon Day marks the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a worldwide campaign calling for united action to combat violence against women and girls.
The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) reaffirms its commitment to ending all forms of violence against women and girls across the country. This important day serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for collective action to address gender-based violence (GBV) and the proliferation of small arms—issues that continue to jeopardize the safety, dignity, and rights of women and girls in Ghana.
Women and girls around the world are disproportionately affected by gender-based violence, and the misuse of small arms only serves to intensify this crisis. Whether during times of conflict or periods of peace, the presence of small arms heightens the vulnerability of women and girls. In both domestic violence situations and conflict-related sexual violence, small arms significantly increase the danger faced by women and girls. For instance, the trafficking of small arms is often linked to other forms of human trafficking, with women and girls making up the majority of the victims.
At NACSA, there is a strong commitment to prioritising the protection and empowerment of women and girls, particularly within the domains of peace and security. Several key initiatives have been introduced to address gender-related issues in small arms control and safeguard the rights of women and girls. These include the creation of a Gender Desk to promote gender equality and increase women’s participation in peace and security, as well as the establishment of strategic offices to combat illicit arms trafficking in communities that are particularly vulnerable. NACSA is also empowering staff through gender-focused training programs and has launched awareness campaigns to highlight the devastating impact of small arms misuse. The Commission works to dismantle harmful gender stereotypes, address the root causes of gender-based violence, and challenge destructive forms of masculinity through education and public outreach. However, these efforts must be supported by a collective response. All stakeholders—government bodies, civil society organizations, community leaders, the media, religious groups, and individuals—are called upon to join in advocating for a safer, more just Ghana.
The Executive Secretary in a written statement published by the Commission stated: “as the white ribbon is worn today, let it symbolize a collective commitment to building a violence-free Ghana, where every woman and girl can thrive in peace, safety, and dignity. It is only through a united effort that this vision can become a reality. Let us disarm to protect all women and girls, and together say “no” to all forms of violence against them.”
The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons has launched its online campaign, alongside other awareness-raising initiatives, over the course of the 16 Days of Activism. The Commission called the public to actively support these efforts and join in the fight against violence towards women and girls, helping to create a safer, violence-free Ghana.
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