Kenya has called for renewed cooperation among countries in the fight against the spread of small arms and light weapons, which continue to threaten peace and security across the region.
Speaking in Nairobi during the opening of the 16th Technical Advisory Committee meeting of the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA), Cabinet Secretary for Interior Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen stressed the need for collective action to address the complex and evolving threats posed by illicit arms.
The meeting, which also marked RECSA’s 20th anniversary, brought together representatives from 15 member states, Principal Secretaries, Chiefs of Police, and National Focal Points on small arms. Delegates assessed progress and explored new strategies to curb the illegal trade in small arms and light weapons.
“For two decades, RECSA has played a pivotal role in promoting peace and security across the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa regions by curbing the proliferation of small arms,” Murkomen said.
“However, more needs to be done. I call on all stakeholders to renew their commitment to RECSA as we reform it to effectively confront emerging threats,”he added.
Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo underscored the urgency of the situation, terming it a regional emergency. “This is not just a series of crises it’s a regional emergency,” Dr. Omollo said, calling for more immediate and unified action among the member states of RECSA.
He urged stronger intelligence-sharing, the updating of national laws, and greater funding for operations to curb the flow of illegal weapons.Kenya, as the host of RECSA, has led regional efforts in arms control, improved border management, intelligence sharing, and strengthening international cooperation and frameworks.
Present at the meeting were RECSA Executive Secretary Jean Pierre Betindji, along with delegates from the 15 member countries.
