Zimbabwe President grants amnesty for illegal firearms

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has granted a month-long amnesty for the voluntary surrender of unlicensed, smuggled, or illegally acquired firearms and ammunition in Zimbabwe. The amnesty period runs from 12 October to 12 November 2026.

According to police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the initiative aligns with the SADC Protocol on Firearms Control, Ammunition and other related materials. The program allows individuals and institutions to surrender weapons at local police stations without being questioned or facing prosecution. Those who comply will receive an official safe custody receipt.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police noted that failures to renew certificates, improper storage, and the retention of firearms following company closures or the death of owners have contributed to crimes such as murder and armed robbery. Additionally, some licensed dealers and clubs have been found holding unclaimed firearms in violation of the Firearms Act. Following the amnesty period, police intend to conduct physical verification exercises to target those suspected of retaining illegal weapons.