Kampala, Uganda – October 2025
The Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA), alongside partners, marked a historic achievement during the launch of Africa Amnesty Month 2025 in Uganda. Speaking at the event, RECSA Executive Secretary Mr. Jean Pierre Betindji highlighted that more than 22,000 illicit firearms have been voluntarily surrendered and destroyed across 15 member states to date.
This milestone underscores the tangible impact of the Amnesty Month initiative, demonstrating how lives are being saved and futures secured through collective action against the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
In his address, Mr. Betindji called for:
-
Stronger national ownership of amnesty initiatives.
-
Increased support and investment to expand these vital programs.
The RECSA Secretariat also commended the Government of Uganda for its leadership in arms control, particularly through the adoption of new policies and legislation to strengthen national frameworks.
Africa Amnesty Month continues to play a crucial role in advancing the Silencing the Guns initiative, promoting peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent.
