Gun Free South Africa (GFSA) has reassured firearm owners that they will have the opportunity to comment on the draft Firearms Control Amendment Bill once it reaches Parliament.

The bill, which is currently under review at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (NEDLAC), proposes stricter controls on firearms. These include tighter licensing rules for hunters and sports shooters, and limits on the amount of ammunition that licensed owners may possess.

However, the Foundation for Rights of Expression and Equality (Free SA) has raised concerns that key stakeholders are being sidelined from discussions on the proposed legislation. The organisation argues that repeated calls for meaningful consultation have not been answered, particularly with groups such as legal gun owners, instructors and women who rely on firearms for protection.

GFSA has explained that the process at NEDLAC allows representatives from communities, labour and business to contribute to policy debates. Once the bill is formally tabled in Parliament, it will also be open to broader public participation.