Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) Management Programs
Action against SALW proliferation has been boosted with the establishment of an experts group to develop a regional arms management policy. The experts developed the first two drafts and are on course to completing the policy, which will inform the legislation harmonisation process deemed critical to collective approach to dealing with SALW. Simultaneously, a study was commissioned to establish the prevalence of the SALW problem in the region in all its aspects. The output will inform future interventions in the SALW issues from an informed perspective.
Additional measures that have been instituted include support to National Focal Points in the implementation of national Level activities, support to Civil Society, enhanced cooperation with the Regional Centre on Small Arms and procurement of marking equipment for all focal Points to facilitate remarking of SALW held and licensed by Partner States. GIZ support continues to facilitate these activities.
In order to enhance cross regional synergy with Intergovernmental Authority on Development, Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa and Indian Ocean Commission, the EAC commenced implementation of the Regional Conflict Prevention Management and Resolution Program (SALW component) funded through European Development Fund (EDF 9).