NAIROBI, Kenya — Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, has called for strengthened regional cooperation in combating the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW).
Speaking at the Forum of Small Arms and Light Weapons Experts held in Nairobi on November 19, 2024, Dr. Omollo emphasized the critical need for a multifaceted approach to address the evolving threat posed by illicit arms.
“As representatives of millions of citizens in our countries, we must make collaboration a cornerstone of our efforts. The illicit trade in small arms continues to mutate daily, necessitating robust strategies to curb its devastating impact,” said Dr. Omollo during the event hosted at Radisson Blu, Upperhill.
The forum brought together representatives from member states of the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA), tasked with implementing the Nairobi Protocol to curb SALW proliferation.
Dr. Omollo commended RECSA’s progress since its establishment in 2005 but underscored the ongoing challenges.
Kenya’s role as Chair of the Technical Advisory Committee was highlighted, with Dr. Omollo reiterating the country’s commitment to bolstering information sharing, enhancing border controls, and fostering responsible arms transfers.
He stressed the importance of refining national and regional strategies to manage stockpiles and implement disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration programs.
“By improving our collective efforts, we can reduce the accessibility of illicit arms and empower individuals to lead peaceful, productive lives,” he said.
Key discussions included the validation of a draft regional harmonized reporting tool for the Nairobi Protocol and an action plan for Weapons and Ammunition Management.
Dr. Omollo urged participants to critically evaluate these frameworks to ensure they address operational realities in member states.
Participants reviewed reports on the RECSA region’s security status, progress on previous resolutions, and the RECSA annual report.
The forum also provided an opportunity to assess the organization’s achievements and identify areas requiring greater attention.
Dr. Omollo appealed to stakeholders to strengthen RECSA’s Secretariat, enabling it to carry out its mandate effectively.
He called for actionable recommendations that align with RECSA’s long-term objectives.
“This meeting is an opportunity to craft tangible strategies to manage small arms and light weapons more effectively. Kenya remains steadfast in its commitment to the principles and goals of RECSA,” he affirmed.
The forum, which concluded with a strong emphasis on regional unity, reaffirmed the shared responsibility of RECSA member states to combat the illicit arms trade and promote sustainable peace across Africa.
