Illicit small arms and light weapons in Africa

Abstract

The proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) in Africa continues to pose a threat to Africa's long-term social and economic development. There is consensus that proliferation of illicit SALW in Africa has increased criminality, youth violence, hostage taking, and cross boarder crimes. It has been observed, however, that while accepting the dangers posed by SALW, Africa has not yet developed the required resilience to deal with the problem. This chapter, therefore, proceeds to examine the question of SALW to ascertain the extent and impact of SALW on Africa's social economic development within the framework of Agenda 2063. The Chapter identifies the sources of SALW, the push factors contributing to their proliferation and the extent of the problem. It then proceeds to examine the impact of the proliferation of SALW. Finally, the paper proffer ways and means by which African states and regional organizations in Africa can deal with the question of SALW as a prelude to creating a safe and secure Africa. Among others, it is suggested that Africa needs to manage SALW through national action, implementation of treaties and strengthened international cooperation. The aspiration is that if Africa can effectively deal with the question of SALW, it will create conditions for the realization of its social economic goals, for the betterment of its people within the framework of Agenda 2063.