Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons: Challenge to Development, Peace and Security in Africa

Abstract

The proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) has been caused by many factors. The SALW cannot cause conflict on their own but when used by rebels, it has caused havoc, destruction of lives in the world. There are many manufacturers of SALW in the world where their market is in conflict zones of Africa, especially The Horn of Africa. This paper discusses the factors for arms proliferation, the international interventions, the regional conventions and the arms control.