The Ministry of the Interior has extended the deadline for valid firearm licence holders to complete mandatory firearms training, mental health assessments and drug tests before renewing their licences.

Appearing before Parliament's Assurances Committee on Tuesday, 7 July, Interior Minister Mohammed-Mubarak Muntaka said holders of valid firearm licences would be allowed to keep their weapons until their current permits expire. They will then be required to complete the new requirements before their licences can be renewed.

The announcement revises the ministry's earlier directive of 23 June, which suspended all registered firearm licences as part of efforts to strengthen Ghana's firearm licensing system, improve compliance and prevent the misuse of legally acquired weapons.

Mr Muntaka said the decision to extend the deadline was influenced by the impact of the 29 June floods, which affected seven regions and left many people facing significant hardship.

"Initially we sent a message and then we had this flood that has affected seven regions; we are rational human beings. People are going through a lot of challenges and trauma. Based on the data that we have, over a hundred thousand people are having these challenges," he said.

He explained that the government considered it unreasonable to require immediate compliance under the circumstances. As a result, eligible firearm licence holders have until 31 December 2026 to meet the new conditions when renewing their permits.

The Interior Minister said the mandatory firearms training, mental health assessments and drug tests are intended to improve accountability and encourage responsible firearm ownership in Ghana.