NACSA Deepens Youth Engagement To Prevent Violent Extremism
The Northern Regional Office of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) has engaged more than 3,000 young people on the dangers of violent extremism and gun-related violence at a Youth Empowerment Summit in Tamale.
The summit, hosted by the Martha Inspires Foundation at the Sanctuary of Wind and Fire of the Assemblies of God Church, was held under the theme, “Passing the Torch.”
It brought together students, youth groups, leaders, and development practitioners, providing NACSA with an opportunity to educate a large youth audience on the growing threat of violent extremism and its potential consequences for individuals and communities.
Speaking at the summit, the Acting Head of the NACSA Tamale Office, Mr Salim Ahmed Salim, highlighted factors that could make individuals and communities vulnerable to violent extremism.
He urged young people to make conscious choices that would protect themselves and their communities from violent activities, particularly gun-related violence.
Mr Salim encouraged the youth to strengthen their commitment to disengage from gun violence and avoid activities and influences that could expose them to extremist ideologies and violent networks.
He stressed the importance of empowering young people with the knowledge and skills needed to identify and resist factors that could make them susceptible to violent extremism.
He reaffirmed NACSA’s commitment to work with civil society organisations, youth groups and other stakeholders to promote awareness and strengthen community-based efforts towards preventing gun violence and violent extremism.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
