INTERIOR PS RAYMOND OMOLLO CALLS FOR STRONGER REGIONAL COOPERATION IN TACKLING ILLICIT ARMS TRADE
BY VICTORIA MOVINE
Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has today opened the Forum of Small Arms and Light Weapons Experts Meeting in Nairobi.
The meeting brought together regional stakeholders to discuss collaborative strategies for curbing the escalation of illicit arms, a pressing issue that continues to undermine peace and security in the region.
In his remarks, the PS called for enhanced border controls and stronger legal frameworks to address the growing threat of illicit small arms and light weapons (SALWs) in the region. He emphasized the need for regional agencies to work together in controlling the illicit flow of arms and promoting responsible transfers.
Dr. Omollo also underscored the importance of improving stockpile management and implementing comprehensive disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs. These initiatives, he said, would empower individuals and communities to lead peaceful and productive lives.
“We have been taking robust measures to counter the illicit trade of small arms and light weapons, and many member states are strengthening their national frameworks as part of collective efforts to enhance regional security,” Dr. Omollo stated.
Dr. Omollo reaffirmed Kenya’s belief in the power of collective action, stressing that through collaboration, substantial progress could be made in reducing the availability of illicit arms and mitigating their harmful impact on society.
“Kenya is committed to working closely with all member states and relevant partners to improve coordination, enhance information sharing, and respond more effectively to the illicit circulation of small arms and light weapons,” he added.
The meeting was attended by Jean Pierre Betindji, Executive Secretary of the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA), and Jacinta Muthoni, Director of the Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons (KNFP).
PS Raymond Omollo (center) with other officials at the Forum of Small Arms and Light Weapons Experts Meeting in Nairobi on Wednesday, November 20,2024.
Since its establishment in 2005, RECSA has made significant progress in addressing the escalation of small arms and light weapons.
Dr. Omollo acknowledged the robust measures implemented by Kenya and other member states to combat the illicit arms trade, strengthen national frameworks, and promote regional security. He reiterated Kenya’s steadfast commitment to regional collaboration and emphasized the need to sustain the gains made in this area.
During the forum, participants reviewed and validated key documents, including the draft action plan on Weapons and Ammunition Management in the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) context, and the regional harmonized reporting tool for the Nairobi Protocol. Dr. Omollo encouraged participants to carefully review these drafts to ensure they meet the practical needs of field operations.
Looking ahead to a major meeting with regional security ministers on Friday, Dr. Omollo outlined the agenda, which includes reviewing reports on the security status in the RECSA region, progress on previous Council of Ministers' resolutions, and an annual review of the RECSA report. He noted that this review would provide a valuable opportunity to assess progress, identify areas needing attention, and refine strategies to further improve regional security efforts.
“This meeting offers a critical chance to reflect on our achievements, reassess our approach, and refine our strategies as we continue to work together to combat the illicit arms trade,” Omollo concluded.
Comments
Post a Comment