Executive Secretary of the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, Dr Adam Bonaa
The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons has announced that its Acting Executive Secretary, Dr Adam Alhassan Adamu Bonaa, has been appointed Chair of the Diversion Information Exchange Forum (DIEF) under the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT).
The appointment was confirmed by Ambassador Carlos Foradori, President of the Eleventh Conference of States Parties (CSP11), in a statement from Geneva on 16 May 2025.
Dr Bonaa becomes the first African to lead the DIEF, a critical UN mechanism established in 2020 to combat the illicit diversion of conventional arms.
The forum enables States Parties and signatories to share information on suspected or actual arms diversion cases, exchange enforcement strategies, and propose collective responses to prevent arms from reaching traffickers, criminal networks, and conflict zones.
Dr Bonaa’s role involves leading efforts to enhance international cooperation and data-sharing to curb arms diversion, aligning with the ATT’s objectives under Articles 11 and 15.
His appointment follows previous DIEF chairs from Belgium, Mexico, and France, marking a significant milestone for Ghana’s influence in global security governance.
With extensive experience in security policy, law enforcement cooperation, and transnational crime prevention, Dr Bonaa is well-positioned to advance the forum’s objectives.
The Commission highlighted that his leadership reflects Ghana’s growing credibility in peacebuilding and responsible arms management.
The National Commission congratulated Dr Bonaa and pledged its full support as he undertakes this vital role, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to global peace and security.
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