How are Uganda and the AU Tackling Illicit Firearms?
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Synopsis
Uganda and the AU have taken a significant step in promoting peace by destroying illicit firearms. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing armed violence and fostering safer communities across Africa. Discover how these efforts are shaping a more secure future.
Key Takeaways
- Over 100 illicit firearms destroyed
- Initiative led by Uganda and AU
- Emphasis on voluntary disarmament
- Part of the ninth Africa Amnesty Month
- Collaboration among multiple stakeholders
Kampala, Oct 4 (NationPress) Uganda, in collaboration with the African Union (AU), has successfully dismantled over 100 illicit firearms, initiating a united front to combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons across Africa.
During a ceremonial weapon destruction held at the Gaddafi Army Barracks in Jinja, eastern Uganda, on Friday (local time), Ugandan Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Marksons Oboth, led the event. This activity is part of the ninth Africa Amnesty Month, celebrated under the theme 'Safer Communities through Voluntary Disarmament.'
Oboth urged individuals still holding illegal firearms to surrender them voluntarily, emphasizing the importance of peace and security.
He stated, 'The 2025 Africa Amnesty Month commemoration here underscores Uganda's commitment to safer communities through disarmament. We must silence the guns via voluntary disarmament.'
Tebelelo Boang, the chairperson of the AU Peace and Security Council, remarked, 'The destruction of firearms saves potential lives and renews hope.'
He further added, 'Together, we progress in disarmament, quieting the guns and fostering peace for all by 2030.'
The event coincided with a two-day forum in Kampala, where experts and government representatives discussed ways to combat the spread of small arms and light weapons throughout the continent, as reported by the Xinhua news agency.
This meeting, organized by the AU Peace and Security Council, gathered representatives from the AU, the East African Community, the United Nations, civil society, youth organizations, women's groups, and other stakeholders to further the continental agenda of eradicating armed violence.
Since its declaration in 2017, Africa Amnesty Month has encouraged civilians to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms without the fear of prosecution.
Point of View
I believe that Uganda and the African Union's efforts in combating illegal firearms reflect a crucial step towards enhancing regional security. The collaboration between various stakeholders showcases a dedicated approach to achieving peace and stability, which is essential for the continent's growth and development.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Africa Amnesty Month?
Africa Amnesty Month is an initiative launched by the AU in 2017 to encourage civilians to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms without facing prosecution. It aims to reduce armed violence and promote community safety.
How many firearms were destroyed in Uganda's recent initiative?
More than 100 illicit firearms were destroyed in Uganda as part of a collaborative effort with the African Union to combat the spread of small arms and light weapons.
Who presided over the firearm destruction ceremony?
The ceremony was presided over by Ugandan Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Marksons Oboth.
What was the theme for this year's Africa Amnesty Month?
The theme for this year's Africa Amnesty Month was 'Safer Communities through Voluntary Disarmament.'
What organizations were involved in the forum held in Kampala?
The forum in Kampala involved representatives from the AU, the East African Community, the United Nations, civil society, youth organizations, women's groups, and other stakeholders.
