Preventing SALW Diversion and Proliferation
Overview
Preventing SALW Diversion and Proliferation (UNSCAR)
This UNSCAR-funded project advanced peace by improving arms marking and recordkeeping in eight RECSA countries. It delivered equipment, training, and software to combat illicit SALW, supporting the AU’s Silencing the Guns and SDG 16.4. Marking progress, regional dialogue, and national ownership were key achievements.
Advancing Peace through Arms Marking and Tracing
2020 – | Funded by UNSCAR
About the Initiative
Illicit Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) threaten regional peace and development. This UNSCAR-funded project enhanced SALW control by improving arms marking and recordkeeping in eight RECSA countries, aligning with the AU’s Silencing the Guns initiative and SDG 16.4. We delivered equipment, training, and fostered regional dialogue to reduce arms diversion.
Key Objectives
Evaluate arms marking and recordkeeping progress in six countries.
Provide marking machines and training to Burundi, CAR, and ROC.
Validate findings through a regional workshop.
Deploy RECSA’s Small Arms Tracing Software (RSTS).
What We Achieved
Equipment Delivered: Provided three marking machines to Burundi, CAR, and ROC.
Training: Trained 60 personnel across three countries.
Evaluation Report: Produced a comprehensive report, validated in Nairobi.
Traceability Improved: Burundi marked 99% of police weapons; Uganda marked 95% of police and 98% of military weapons.
Lessons Learned
Continuous training counters personnel turnover. Robust equipment ensures reliability. National ownership sustains outcomes.