PS Omollo urges enhanced border control for better small arms, weapons transfer

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has emphasized the need to enhance border controls, strengthen legal frameworks, and promote responsible transfers of small arms and light weapons to address this growing threat effectively.

Speaking when he officially opened the Forum of Small Arms and Light Weapons Experts Meeting in Nairobi on Wednesday, Omollo also underscored the importance of comprehensive disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) programs.

“We must continue to enhance border controls, strengthen our legal frameworks and promote responsible arms transfers,” he said.

“Additionally, we must improve stockpile management and engage in comprehensive disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration programs, empowering individuals to lead peaceful and productive lives.”

The forum brings together regional stakeholders to discuss collaborative strategies to combat the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons, a critical issue affecting peace and security in the region.

Omollo highlighted Kenya’s belief that through collective efforts, substantial progress can be made in reducing the accessibility of illicit arms and curbing their devastating impact on societies.

“As the Chair of the Technical Advisory Committee, Kenya committed to working closely with all member states and relevant partners to enhance coordination and bolster our collective efforts to improve information sharing and respond to the illicit circulation of small arms and light weapons,” said the PS.

Omollo noted that since the establishment of the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA) in 2005, significant strides have been made in addressing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.

He acknowledged the robust measures Kenya and other member states have implemented to curb illicit arms trade, enhance national frameworks, and promote regional security.

“I implore participants to look at the importance of their role in supporting the RECSA Secretariat and identify ways to enhance the Secretariat's capacity, ensuring it has the framework needed to carry out its vital work,” the PS added.

PS Omollo further reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to regional collaboration in tackling this challenge and called for enhanced efforts to sustain the gains achieved thus far.