The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security officially launched African Amnesty Month in Windhoek on Friday, urging citizens to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms, ammunition, and explosives.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security Lucia Iipumbu, Inspector General of the Namibian Police Force, Joseph Shikongo, emphasised the importance of community cooperation in promoting peace and security. 

“This initiative is not about punishment, but about protecting lives and restoring peace,” he said.

Shikongo explained that individuals surrendering illegal weapons during the amnesty period will not face prosecution.

Those found with illegal weapons after September will, however, face legal consequences. “This is your opportunity to hand over any unlicensed or unwanted firearms without fear. After this month, law enforcement will act decisively,” Shikongo warned.

Amnesty month is a period where citizens are encouraged to surrender illegal and unwanted firearms, ammunition, and armaments without the risk of prosecution.

Following a decision by the African Union (AU) to silence guns on the continent, September has been declared amnesty month across Africa.

The programme, initially set to end in 2020, saw an extension to 2030 under Agenda 2063, which aims to end armed conflict, gender-based violence, and genocide.

The event was attended by senior government officials, law enforcement representatives, and community leaders, including members of the Men and Women Network, Neighbourhood Watch, and Youth Against Crime.

Shikongo also called on the media to amplify the message nationwide, noting that the success of the initiative depends on collective action. 

The amnesty period will run from 01 to 30 September 2025. Citizens are encouraged to report or surrender any illegal weapons to the nearest police station.
-Nampa