What You Need to Know
Tanzania has pledged to tighten regulations on the importation and use of firearms as part of a regional initiative to combat the proliferation of illicit small arms. Home Affairs Minister Patrobass Katambi announced this commitment during a virtual meeting of the Regional Ministerial Sub-Committee on Small Arms Control, which included discussions on joint strategies among member states to enhance
Africa-Press – Tanzania. TANZANIA has pledged to tighten control over the importation and use of firearms as regional ministers stepped up efforts to curb the proliferation of illicit small arms across the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa.
Minister for Home Affairs, Patrobass Katambi, made the commitment when participating virtually in a meeting of the Regional Ministerial Sub-Committee on Small Arms Control (RESCA), which brought together security ministers to assess the region’s security situation and emerging threats, particularly the illegal spread and use of small arms and light weapons.
The meeting drew participation from Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Djibouti, with member states deliberating on joint strategies to strengthen arms control and combat illicit trafficking.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Katambi said the government is implementing strategic measures to enhance national security, including strengthening systems for monitoring arms imports, reviewing firearm ownership responsibilities, conducting inspections and assessing applicants’ intent.
Additionally, he said that Tanzania will also boost the use of digital and technological systems to improve arms control and safeguard security both nationally and across the region.
The issue of small arms proliferation has been a significant concern in the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa regions, where conflicts and instability have often been fueled by the illegal trade in firearms. In response, regional governments have increasingly recognized the need for collaborative efforts to strengthen arms control measures and enhance national security. The establishment of initiatives like the Regional Ministerial Sub-Committee on Small Arms Control reflects a growing commitment to address these challenges collectively, aiming to reduce the impact of illicit arms on regional peace and stability.
