Support to Civilian Disarmament Initiatives within RECSA Member States
Overview
Support to Civilian Disarmament Initiatives within RECSA Member States
From May 2018 to March 2019, this UK-funded initiative promoted voluntary civilian disarmament in Kenya, South Sudan, and Uganda. Through public awareness, capacity building, and regional cooperation, it strengthened efforts to reduce illicit SALW, enhance human security, and support sustainable peace and development.
Promoting Peace and Security through Voluntary Firearm Surrender
May 2018 – March 2019 | Funded by the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO), United Kingdom
About the Initiative
The proliferation of illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) fuels insecurity, conflict, and crime across the RECSA region. This project, supported by the UK’s FCO, aimed to strengthen regional cooperation for civilian disarmament, aligning with Article 12 of the Nairobi Protocol. By engaging National Focal Points (NFPs), Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and communities, we promoted voluntary firearm surrender to enhance human security and sustainable development in Kenya, South Sudan, and Uganda.
Key Objectives
- Conduct a baseline assessment of voluntary civilian disarmament in RECSA Member States.
- Launch public awareness campaigns to encourage firearm surrender in pilot areas.
- Build the capacity of NFPs, LEAs, and CSOs to coordinate disarmament efforts.
What We Achieved
- Baseline Assessment Completed: A comprehensive report on voluntary surrender initiatives was validated and published on RECSA and Small Arms Survey websites, guiding future programs.
- Public Campaigns Launched: Awareness campaigns in Mathare, Kayole, Mukuru, Dandora (Kenya), Terekeka (South Sudan), and Wakiso (Uganda) reduced armed crime and led to voluntary firearm surrenders.
- Capacity Strengthened: NFPs and CSOs gained enhanced skills to sustain disarmament efforts.
- Policy Impact: Contributed to the UK’s Counter Proliferation Programme by aligning regional priorities.
Lessons Learned
Voluntary disarmament thrives on community trust and engagement. Addressing poverty and security gaps is critical to reducing SALW demand. Sustainable funding and regional coordination are vital for lasting impact
