RECSA

Menu
RECSA > Programmes > Strengthening Africa’s Security: Advancing Physical Security and Stockpile Management (PSSM)

Strengthening Africa’s Security: Advancing Physical Security and Stockpile Management (PSSM)

IMG_2105
Overview

Strengthening Africa’s Security: Advancing Physical Security and Stockpile Management (PSSM)

The Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA) is tackling illicit SALW proliferation through Physical Security and Stockpile Management (PSSM) initiatives. By destroying 26,131 weapons, securing storage infrastructure, and training personnel, these efforts prevent weapon diversion and armed violence. Challenges remain, but enhanced funding, better record-keeping, and stronger cross-border cooperation will reinforce long-term peace and security across Africa

  • How Better Stockpile Management Reduces Armed Violence

    The proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons (SALW) remains a key driver of instability across Africa. Weak stockpile security allows weapons to fall into the wrong hands—fueling terrorism, armed conflicts, cattle rustling, and cross-border crimes. To counter this, the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA) has spearheaded Physical Security and Stockpile Management (PSSM) interventions to enhance safe weapons storage and prevent diversion.

    Key Achievements (2018–2023)

    • 26,131 obsolete/confiscated/surrendered weapons destroyed.

    • 161 tons of unexploded ordnance (UXO) eliminated to prevent unintended explosions.

    • 367 strong-arm steel boxes provided for secure stockpiling.

    • 70 gun racks supplied to improve weapons management.

    • 20 modular armories deployed in high-risk zones.

    • 14 marking machines distributed to improve weapons tracking.

    • 850 personnel trained in Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM).

    • 33 regional WAM instructors trained and certified, reducing reliance on international trainers.

    Challenges Affecting PSSM Implementation

    While these achievements are noteworthy, several barriers persist:

    • Insufficient funding for long-term sustainability.

    • Weak record-keeping affects weapon tracing efforts.

    • Limited stockpile security infrastructure increases the risk of diversion.

    • Political instability hampers arms control measures.

    Strengthening PSSM: The Way Forward

    • Enhance weapons marking and record-keeping to track firearms effectively.

    • Improve tracing and repatriation mechanisms for recovered weapons.

    • Increase government funding for National Focal Points (NFPs).

    • Expand PSSM training and capacity-building initiatives.

    • Promote better maintenance of stockpile storage facilities.

    Conclusion

    Through PSSM interventions, RECSA and its partners have made significant strides toward enhancing security in Africa. By improving stockpile management, training, and weapons destruction, the initiative plays a crucial role in reducing armed violence and ensuring long-term peace.

    Containirzed Armory Units