FOSDA calls for review of explosives regulation after Hamile blast

The Foundation for Security and Development in Africa (FOSDA) has called for a comprehensive review of Ghana’s explosives control systems following the deadly dynamite explosion in Hamile in the Upper West Region.

The organization says weaknesses in the licensing, transportation, storage and monitoring of explosives could expose the country to security threats if urgent measures are not taken.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, November 5, 2026, FOSDA expressed concern over the reported transportation of dynamite through an unauthorized route towards Burkina Faso before the explosion on Tuesday, November 3.

The incident, which occurred in Hamile in the Lambussie District, reportedly claimed the lives of a Ghana Immigration Service officer and two civilians, while several others sustained injuries.

“The reported movement of dynamite through an unauthorised border route raises critical fundamental questions about the acquisition, transportation, regulation and possible trafficking of explosive materials within Ghana and across its borders,” the statement said.

The organisation warned that informal cross-border networks could provide opportunities for dangerous materials to move beyond the effective reach of existing regulatory and security arrangements
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It therefore urged the government to undertake a comprehensive review of the systems governing explosives, particularly the monitoring of informal supply chains and the possible diversion of such materials into illicit activities.

FOSDA also called for stronger institutional coordination among security agencies and other relevant regulatory bodies to identify weaknesses in the country’s explosives management systems.

The Foundation recommended that the government strengthen and adequately resource Border Security Committees (BOSEC) to improve intelligence gathering and information sharing in communities along Ghana’s borders.

It said the committees should receive adequate logistical and operational support, alongside regular capacity-building, to enable them to effectively perform their responsibilities.

“Government should prioritise the institutional strengthening, resourcing and operational empowerment of Border Security Committees (BOSEC) to enable them to effectively discharge their mandates across all border communities,” FOSDA stated.

FOSDA also encouraged Ghana to endorse the United Nations Declaration on the Use of Explosives in Populated Areas (EWIPA) as part of efforts to improve the protection of civilians.

Beyond regulatory reforms, the organisation stressed the importance of involving traditional authorities, youth groups, local government structures and community representatives in border security management.

It said residents must be treated as essential partners in identifying suspicious activities and preventing security threats.

“Communities must be treated as essential partners in identifying and preventing security threats, with accessible and trusted channels for reporting suspicious activities and raising grievances,” the statement added.

FOSDA maintained that the Hamile incident should not be treated as an isolated explosives accident but as an opportunity for the government to address possible weaknesses in the country’s security and regulatory systems.