The Regional Centre on Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA) successfully concluded its 11th Council of Ministers Meeting from 9 to 13 June 2025 at Nairobi Safari Park, Nairobi, Kenya. The meeting convened Ministers and Plenipotentiaries from RECSA Member States, including the Republic of Burundi, Central African Republic, Republic of Djibouti, Democratic Republic of Congo, State of Eritrea, Republic of Kenya, Republic of Rwanda, Federal Republic of Somalia, Republic of South Sudan, United Republic of Tanzania, and Republic of Uganda, alongside invited partners.

The meeting, was officially opened by Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, EGH, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration. He urged Member States to consider signing the reviewed agreement establishing RECSA to address evolving challenges in combating illicit SALW and ammunition proliferation across the region.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

1. 20th Anniversary Commemoration: The Ministerial meeting was preceded by a significant event marking RECSA’s 20th anniversary, graced by His Excellency Dr. William Samoei Ruto, C.G.H., President of the Republic of Kenya. President Ruto led the symbolic destruction of over 6,000 illicit and obsolete firearms, underscoring the region’s commitment to reducing SALW proliferation. He praised regional efforts and called for strengthened collaborative disarmament initiatives.
2. Kenya’s Commitment to Global Frameworks: President Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s dedication to ratifying the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT), the Global Framework on Ammunition (GFA), and other SALW management instruments, setting a strong example for regional cooperation.
3. Adoption of Key Reports and Agreements: The Council adopted the report of the 16th Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting, presented by TAC Chairman Dr. Raymond Omollo, PhD, CBS. Additionally, the revised Agreement Establishing RECSA was endorsed, marking a milestone in updating the organization’s framework to address contemporary challenges.
4. Financial and Partner Support: The Council commended Member States that have met their financial obligations and encouraged others to clear outstanding arrears. Special appreciation was extended to the Republic of Kenya for hosting the RECSA Secretariat. The Council also acknowledged the invaluable support of partners in advancing SALW management initiatives and urged continued collaboration.
5. Leadership Transition: The Republic of Kenya handed over the Chairmanship of the RECSA Council of Ministers to the Republic of Rwanda, with the United Republic of Tanzania assuming the Vice Chairmanship.

Outcomes and Future Commitments

The Member States reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to implementing the Nairobi Protocol and harmonized instruments to promote peace, security, and reduce human suffering in the Great Lakes Region, Horn of Africa, and bordering states. The Council expressed gratitude to the Government of Kenya for its warm hospitality and for hosting a successful conference.

Looking ahead, Member States agreed to convene the 17th Technical Advisory Committee meeting in June 2026 and the 12th Ordinary Council of Ministers meeting in Rwanda in June 2027. The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge to enhance cooperation among Member States and partners to address the challenges posed by SALW proliferation.

A Unified Vision for Peace and Security

The 11th Council of Ministers Meeting underscored RECSA’s pivotal role in fostering regional collaboration to combat the illicit spread of small arms and light weapons. By endorsing updated frameworks and strengthening partnerships, RECSA and its Member States are poised to advance peace and security across the region.