Top of PageGun Policy News
Gun violence, gun control and small arms
Burundi,Tanzania,Rwanda,East Africa,Uganda,Kenya
Lack of Arms Trade Treaty Puts East Africa at Centre of Gun Trafficking
8 May 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
A total of 300,000 small arms and light weapons have been smuggled into Uganda and other East African community countries for the last 10 years.
This is as revealed by the executive secretary East Africa Action Network on small arms (EAANSA), Richard Mugisha has revealed.
Mugisha said the importation of illegal small arms was high in East Africa due to the existing arms embargoes which are too easy to break or ignore by different countries.
"How can the sale of... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Major Transit Point for Arms Trafficking in East Africa
25 April 2012
Star (Kenya)
Kenya is a major transit point for illegal weapons destined to war torn countries in sub-Saharan Africa, the East Africa Legislative Assembly has said. EALA speaker Abdirahin Abdi said this is due to Kenya's strategic position through its port of Mombasa and other long porous borders with her neighbours.
Abdi was speaking in Mombasa when he officially opened a two day sensitisation forum on the need to support Small Arms And Light Weapons for parliamentary security,... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya, Ethiopia Turn to Trade to Curb Cross Border Gun Running
7 April 2012
East African (Nairobi)
Kenya and Ethiopia are opening up their volatile border to more trade as they seek to improve community relations, ease inter-ethnic tensions to reduce demand for small arms and disrupt one of the main routes of illicit small arms coming into East Africa.
Illicit small arms trade in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes region has been one of the main drivers of crime across East Africa and has sustained organised criminal networks like cattle rustlers and urban... (GunPolicy.org)
Guns, Domestic Shootings Factor in Kenya's 1,756 Violent Deaths
4 April 2012
Nation (Kenya)
Some 1,756 people were killed last year by violent and armed criminals, a new police report shows.
The report, which records an increase in serious crimes like murder and violent robbery, cites the rise of criminal gangs and availability of guns on the black market as the reasons.
It shows a seven per cent surge in incidents reported to police compared to 2010.
Police, however, note that a "significant" number of victims were not killed by gangsters but died at the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Govt Launches an Amnesty for Those in Possession of Illegal Firearms
23 March 2012
Star (Kenya)
The government has given those in possession of illegal firearms in Western province a one month amnesty to return the guns. Speaking during a two day workshop on awareness rising on the dangers of illicit small arms and light weapons in a Bungoma hotel, the Kenya National Focal Point director David Kimaiyo said the criminals have been terrosing residents of Bungoma North, Kimilili and parts of Webuye. The workshop was also attended by Upper Western regional... (GunPolicy.org)
Panama,Liberia,Oman,Yemen,Egypt,Saudi Arabia,Mauritius,Seychelles,Mongolia,Djibouti,Madagascar,United Arab Emirates,United Kingdom,Somalia,Kenya
Anti-piracy Security Firms Keep Guns in Floating Armouries to Avoid Law
22 March 2012
Associated Press
NAIROBI, Kenya — Private security firms are storing their guns aboard floating armories in international waters so ships that want armed anti-piracy guards for East Africa's pirate-infested waters can cut costs and circumvent laws limiting the import and export of weapons, industry officials say.
Companies and legal experts say the operation of the armories is a "legal gray area" because few, if any, governments have laws governing the practice. Some security... (GunPolicy.org)
Suspected Belgian Killers Involved in Illegal Gun Trade in Uganda and Kenya
22 March 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
Four men including a police officer who allegedly murdered a Belgian tourist in Mount Elgon National Park in Kapchorwa district in 2008 were allegedly involved in an illegal firearms trade, a Police commissioner has told court.
Christopher Kwerit, a commissioner in charge of political education in the Police force produced charge and caution statements before the court martial on Tuesday in which the suspects allegedly confessed that they were involved in arms trade in... (GunPolicy.org)
Côte d'Ivoire,Mali,Togo,West Africa,Ghana,Kenya
Ghana National Security Receives Firearm Marking Machines
7 March 2012
Ghana News Agency
The Regional Centre for Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA) based in Kenya, on Wednesday presented two weapon marking machines to Ghana in efforts to eliminate the illicit trade and proliferation of small arms and weapons.
The donation was made during a three-day training programme for security personnel on weapons marking and record-keeping in Accra and organised in collaboration with the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA) and Ministry of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya,Sudan,Congo (DRC),Uganda
Uganda Government is Drafting a Bill to Tighten, Control, Limit Firearm Use
25 February 2012
Monitor (Kampala)
The government is drafting a bill to tighten, control and limit the use of firearms by security agencies and civilians across the country. The Firearms, Ammunition and Related Materials Bill seeks to harmonise all existing laws governing possession of guns, including the Firearms Act, 1970.
The 1970 Act only regulates ownership of firearms held by individuals, while those held by the police and security agencies are governed under separate laws. It is not known how... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia,Mozambique,Tanzania,Kenya,East Africa
Small Arms Proliferation in East Africa Fueling Conflicts and Instability - Opinion
23 February 2012
Pambazuka News (Africa), Opinion
A proliferation of small arms is fueling conflict and instability in East Africa. The ongoing pre-election violence in Kenya and the 'war on terror' will deter domestic and international investors, business people and economists say. These fears are valid given that illicit weapons are said to be hidden in parts of Kenya, especially in the Rift Valley Province.
On 9 December 2009 and on 2 February 2010, thousands of bullets, army uniforms, thousands of litres of fuel,... (GunPolicy.org)
Conditions to Be Met when Applying for Firearm Licence in Kenya
6 January 2012
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
When applying for a firearms certificate, one is required to have a valid certificate of good conduct and a photocopy of their Kenyan Identity Card.
Aliens will have to produce passports, work permits and any other supporting documents.
The originals of the above documents are submitted to the local police boss, who will complete a questionnaire and make his recommendations and thereafter forward to his OCPD.
A safe inspection report, which is filled after the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Regional Commissioner Urges Isiolo Communities to Surrender Arms
14 December 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
Communities in Isiolo have been advised to take advantage of the government amnesty to surrender illegal firearms in their custody.
Upper Eastern Regional Commissioner Isaih Nakoru said the government has deployed enough security officers into the areas and that security has been beefed up.
He said those who voluntarily surrender the firearms will not be victimised and that people must feel free to return them at any time. "I am appealing to the communities to start... (GunPolicy.org)
In a Year, NYC Police Fire 20% of Bullets Fired in Hours by Kenya Police
4 December 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Consider this and think of the situation in Kenya as you read on: Last year, 52 officers out of a force of 34,565 officers from the New York Police Department intentionally fired 236 bullets during confrontations with suspects.
The officers reportedly shot and killed only eight people and injured 16 the whole year, in what the Police Department say marked record lows.
Of course the social and economic realities of Nairobi and New York are totally different but there... (GunPolicy.org)
Congo (DRC),Africa,Kenya,United States
High-price US Fashion Jewellery Made from AK-47s Funds Gun Destruction
30 November 2011
New York Times
When Cara Buono arrived at the Emmy Awards in September, nominated as best guest actress in a drama series for her role as Dr. Faye Miller in "Mad Men," she wore a $150,000 political statement in her lobes. "These earrings," she said, "are made from AK-47 gun metal."
Ms. Buono's husband, Peter Thum, is a founder, with John Zapolski, of Fonderie 47, an organization that converts what is perhaps the most widely distributed assault rifle into jewelry.
On a visit to Kenya... (GunPolicy.org)
50,000 Illegal Guns in Kenya: Government Must Curb Cartels, Say NGOs
22 November 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
More than 50,000 illegal guns are still in the hands of civilians, especially in urban areas and other regions prone to cattle rustling.
A report by civil society groups indicates that the government has been unable to deal with the infiltration of small arms into the country because of involvement of some well-connected individuals involved in the trade. Chairman of the NGOs Council Ken Wafula wants the government to crack down on the cartels.
Wafula says that unless... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Recover Illegal Arms in Refugee Camp
1 November 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
A security operation to recover illegal firearms in the three refugee camps in Garissa county in North-Eastern region has unearthed a cache of firearms believed to have been used in crime including hijacking vehicles belonging to humanitarian organisations and foreigners in refugee camps.
The operation which started two weeks ago in the Ifo, Hagardera and Dagahaley have so far recovered four AK 47 assault rifles, 16 magazines and 477 bullets in Hagardera refugee... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,East Africa,South Africa,Kenya
Security Threat in Kenya Triggers Debate on Whether to Give Guards Guns
27 October 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
At the Majlis Resort on Manda Island, the night watchman carries only a radio and a torch. As dusk falls on the island, a team of local police officers armed with rifles arrives and settles down on the beachfront.
Less than a month ago, Somali pirates kidnapped French woman Marieu Dedieu from this very spot. Now police are here to guard a handful of tourists still remaining in Lamu, because they are the only ones who can do it.
"The government wrote a letter to... (GunPolicy.org)
150,000 Illegal Arms in 2003 to 350,000 in 2011, Expert Warns Kenya
21 October 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
There are more than 350,000 illegal arms in the country, an expert has said. Deputy Director of the Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons Patrick Ochieng said the number of illegal arms has shot up in the recent past noting that in 2003 there were only 150,000 illegal firearms in the country.
"We are facing an upsurge of guns which are in the wrong hands and they have become a threat to the country's national security," Ochieng said during a... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,Sudan,Ethiopia,Somalia,Kenya
Onus Now on Kenya Government to Halt the Firearms Threat - Opinion
9 October 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Opinion
Recent revelations that there are between 200,000 and 450,000 illegal firearms in circulation in the country are quite alarming.
The government must move fast to ensure that this trend of events is put to an immediate halt.
We believe that the country's porous borders are a contributory factor and the authorities must step up efforts to eradicate the menace.
The National Small Arms Mapping Survey, a joint effort between the government and the Swiss-based Small Arms... (GunPolicy.org)
Ukraine,Uganda,Sudan,Ethiopia,Libya,Somalia,Kenya
Police Close Kenya-Somalia Border, Attempt to Block 'Conduit of Illicit Arms'
5 October 2011
Business Daily (Nairobi)
Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere's Monday order to close the Kenya-Somalia border has not affected flights, offering miraa traders and humanitarian workers a lifeline.
Miraa is one of Kenya's largest exports to Somalia, accounting for a substantial share of the Sh13 billion export value to the country last year, according to the Economic Survey 2011.
"We do not have any indication of cancellation of flights from the commissioner's communication," said Kenya Police... (GunPolicy.org)
Bill Recommends 5-yr Prison Term for Misuse of Firearms in Kenya
26 September 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
Misuse or illegal possession of firearms will now be punishable by a five-year jail term if the Cabinet passes a newly developed draft bill on small and light weapons compiled by Kenya National Focal Point.
The Bill, which has been handed over to the Minister for Provincial Administration and Internal Security George Saitoti, recommends that any police officer or licensed firearm holder who handles a gun while under the influence of alcohol will be jailed if... (GunPolicy.org)
East Africa,Somalia,Sudan,Uganda,Ethiopia,Kenya
Hundreds Die in Gun Violence, Cattle Rustling in East African Drought
20 September 2011
Think Africa Press, Opinion
TURKANA, Kenya - On a recent trip to Turkana in northern Kenya, somewhere between Maralal and Baragoi we stopped by a dry riverbed. A group of 12 men came into view through the desert scrub. As they drew closer their weapons were clearly visible, a mix of AK47s, ex-government issue G3s and a few older rifles. Our nervousness was unwarranted and the group barely slowed as they passed, merely raising their hands in greeting before continuing on towards some distant... (GunPolicy.org)
Between 200,000-450,000 Illegal Guns in Kenya, Urgent Call to Action
17 September 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Editorial
A new report on the rise in the number of people who have access to guns is as alarming as it is unsurprising.
The report by the respected Small Arms Survey estimates there are between 200,000 and 450,000 guns in the wrong hands in this country.
It is well established that a functional state is one where the government has a monopoly on the use of violence.
By that measure the report's findings are disturbing because they indicate that large parts of the country are... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania,Sudan,Somalia,Seychelles,Kenya,Eritrea,Ethiopia,Djibouti,East Africa,Congo (DRC),Rwanda,Burundi
RECSA Calls for Increased Efforts to Reduce Small Arms in East Africa
16 September 2011
New Times (Rwanda)
The Executive Secretary of the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA), Dr. Francis K. Sang, has called upon all countries within the region to come up with more mechanisms and strategies to fight against the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons.
RECSA is an intergovernmental body based in Nairobi, Kenya, bringing together 13 countries from the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa region.
All member states that subscribe to the centre, including Rwanda, are... (GunPolicy.org)
Brew Trader Woman Shot Dead by Armed Gunmen in Kenya Slums
7 September 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
An illegal brew trader was on Monday night shot dead by armed gunmen in Kibera slums. According to police, the woman is known to sell traditional brew Chang'aa within Siranga area of the slums.
Kilimani OCPD Benard Muli confirmed the 8pm shooting and added that a group of about six armed men carried out the murder. She was attacked in her house while in the company of her customers. Muli said that they were investigating the incident to establish why they only shot her... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Gun Control, Firearm Licensing Restrictions, Penalties to Increase
30 August 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
The government is to introduce new laws for acquiring guns. Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons Director David Kimaiyo has said the new laws will include stiff penalties for misuse of illegally acquired guns.
Kimaiyo said there had been many cases of misuse of licensed guns but now proper vetting will be done before guns are issued. He said currently the laws dealing with licensed guns did not adequately deal with their abuse.
Kimaiyo who was... (GunPolicy.org)
Three Ethiopians with 2,000 Bullets Arrested at Kenyan Border
17 August 2011
Nairobi Star (Kenya)
Police in Moyale have arrested three suspected Ethiopians with more than 2,000 bullets at the border town a day after two people were killed in the area.
The three were intercepted crossing the border with the bullets in their bags. The police locked them up in Moyale police station. Upper Eastern regional PC Isaiah Nakoru said the suspects had Kenyan IDs. The PC, who held series of meetings in Moyale to calm the situation following the killing of two people two days... (GunPolicy.org)
3rd Licensed Gun Owner Charged in Kenya Road Rage, Shooting Dramas
6 July 2011
Standard (Nairobi)
A businessman was arrested after he dramatically fired six rounds of ammunition in a road rage incident at the junction of Kenyatta Avenue and Koinange Street, Nairobi.
Mr Elly Owuor, was arrested outside the Serena Hotel where he had escaped to following the 3am incident on Wednesday.
Mr Owuor's black sleek Mercedes Benz car had been involved in an accident with another salon vehicle when he suddenly came out holding a pistol in his hand.
Police confirmed that he is... (GunPolicy.org)
Southern Sudan Faces Major Challenge in Disarming 150,000 Soldiers
2 July 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Southern Sudan is facing a major challenge of disarming more than 150,000 soldiers and easing them back to civilian life when it gains independence this week.
Southern Sudan Disarmament Demobilisation and Reintegration Commission chairman William Deng Deng said the new state wants to get rid of excess forces including the elderly, disabled and children.
"These are soldiers that are no longer useful after the war. We now need an organised, professional, controllable... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,East Africa,Somalia,Ethiopia,Sudan,Kenya
East Africa: Put Down Your Gun, Pick Up Your Baton and Run for Peace
12 June 2011
East African (Nairobi)
As she posed for a picture with cattle rustlers long used to treating guns as toys, East African Community Deputy Secretary General for Political Federation Beatrice Kiraso made a provocative statement.
"The richest people in the world are not cattle keepers but industrialised nations," she told an audience of mainly cattle keeping communities during the 8th edition of the Moroto Peace Race recently.
You don't tell that to a community that lives and dies for cattle.... (GunPolicy.org)
Wave of Murders/Suicides Amongst Kenyan Police Under Study
16 May 2011
Capital FM-Radio (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya - Police Commissioner Mathew Iteere has commissioned a research to establish the cause of the stress levels amongst his officers, in the wake of increased cases of policemen killing their seniors or colleagues before they commit suicide.
This follows four recent incidents where police officers have either committed suicide or killed fellow officers - mainly their seniors - in various parts of the country.
The most recent incident occurred at the... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Officer Uses Service Rifle to Gun Down Boss, 2 Colleagues in Kenya
27 March 2011
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
A policeman, who shot dead two of his colleagues, stared into the camera without any remorse on Sunday morning.
Mr Martin Mutwiri, 28, was arrested as he boarded a Nairobi-bound matatu in Nanyuki town, in what detectives described as a bid to escape.
This was barely 10 hours after he shot the deputy commander of Naro Moru Police Station, Mr Hudson Orwenyo and a senior sergeant on Saturday evening.
Nyeri police boss Kirunya Limbitu said the suspect turned violent... (GunPolicy.org)
Olympic Champion Charged Over AK-47 Threat to Kill His Wife in Nairobi
30 December 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Olympic marathon gold medallist Samuel Wanjiru was on Thursday charged with threatening to kill his wife, Tereza Njeri, with an illegal firearm.
The marathon champion was also charged with threatening to kill their househelp, Nancy Njoki, and wounding a security guard, Mr William Masinde.
Wanjiru denied the charges in a Nyahururu court and was released on a bond of Sh300,000, with a similar surety.
He is said to have committed the offences on Wednesday at his... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Policeman Kills 10, Hunting 'Woman Who Infected Him With HIV'
8 November 2010
Associated Press
A police officer who said he was looking for a woman who infected him with HIV rampaged through three bars in a central Kenyan town and killed 10 people, including two fellow officers, officials say.
The shooting spree happened late on Saturday in Siakago, 150km northeast of the capital Nairobi.
The suspect, who is in his 30s, went out on Saturday night looking for a female friend but couldn't find her, District Commissioner John Chelimo said on Sunday. The officer is... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Reforms Deliberately Leave Security Guards Unarmed in Kenya
15 September 2010
Business Daily (Nairobi)
Private security guards hoping to own forearms will have to undergo the same licensing procedures as civilians, the Police Reforms Implementation Committee has said.
The committee chairman, Mr Titus Naikuni, said the Private Security Industry Regulation Bill 2010, meant to regulate the private security sector would not automatically allow the arming of security guards.
The quest to arm private security guards - who are not members of the armed force - has opened... (GunPolicy.org)
Police, Even Security Industry Oppose Arming Private Guards in Kenya
13 September 2010
Business Daily (Nairobi)
Regulation of the private security sector is seen as a prerequisite to allowing guards to carry firearms as proposed in the Private Security Regulation Bill 2010, a measure seen as a deterrent to crime, but which could also become a security risk if arms filter to criminals.
Countries like Uganda, Morocco and Canada allow private guards to be armed under strict regulations. However, whether allowing guards to carry arms is or is not a crime deterrent measure is... (GunPolicy.org)
Give Police More Resources, Don't Risk Arming Security Guards in Kenya
9 September 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Editorial
NAIROBI — The job of a private security guard is most unenviable. These people work long hours, often in the dark of night, rarely with any kind of break, and they are hardly ever appreciated - until something untoward happens.
Most private security guards are ill-trained and invariably ill-paid. Indeed, for between Sh5,000 and Sh8,000 a month, they are supposed to lay down their lives in the line of duty.
So it does sound extremely callous to raise an alarm about... (GunPolicy.org)
Amnesty International Report Claims Kenya Abets Regional Gun Running
21 July 2010
Standard (Nairobi)
Kenya is one of the countries that have failed to control movement of weapons, which end up being used to commit war crimes.
A new report by Amnesty International shows how countries fail to control trafficking of deadly arms globally, leading to serious human rights violation.
The report exposed how transport companies registered in five countries ship arms by sea and air around the world.
The report, Deadly Movements: Arms Transportation Controls in the Arms Trade... (GunPolicy.org)
Tanzania,Kenya,Rwanda,Congo (DRC),Burundi,Somalia,Ethiopia,Djibouti,Eritrea
Great Lakes and Horn of Africa Nations Add Local Serial Numbers to Guns
3 July 2010
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
The Regional Centre on Small Arms (Recsa) is procuring a database software to facilitate firearms marking, record keeping and trade of light weapons in the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa.
Speaking at a two-day regional workshop in Dar es Salaam on Thursday, the Recsa Monitoring and Evaluation head, Mr Nestory Mpembela, said with the database software, small arms and light weapons particulars would be at finger tips.
"This product will immensely and positively... (GunPolicy.org)
Alleged Gun Runner Caught in Kenya on Regular Arms Smuggling Trip
18 June 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A man on the police list of gun runners in Kenya has been arrested and is being questioned in connection with Sunday's grenade attacks at Uhuru Park.
Undercover officers from the Special Crime Prevention Unit arrested him at a roadblock at Matuu on the Nairobi-Garissa highway on Thursday night.
They found him with seven guns and 27 rounds of ammunition.
He was travelling to Nairobi from Garissa on a bus.
The officers used gun detectors to uncover the... (GunPolicy.org)
Pirates, Submerged Cache of Guns & Ammo Hauled In by Kenya Police
19 May 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A Malindi fisherman chanced upon a cache of arms on Wednesday, triggering a major security operation in the coastal town. The fisherman was setting nets to catch octopus in the Indian Ocean when he came across the weapons.
On Wednesday, police officers hauled the arsenal ashore and displayed it at Malindi Police Station as investigators tried to unravel who the owner is.
The weapons, packed in sacks, included 436 bullets, four rockets, one rocket launcher,... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Robbers Target Bus Passengers, Smuggle Guns Into Kenyan Cities
16 May 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Three people were arrested on Sunday after they were found smuggling two guns and ammunition into the city.
Detectives from the Special Crime Prevention Unit led by Mr Richard Katola intercepted the bus from Kisumu and recovered a Browning automatic and Tokarev pistols with eleven rounds of ammunition. The bus had just arrived in the city from Kisumu when police acting on a tip-off arrested the men.
Nairobi police boss Anthony Kibuchi said they were being... (GunPolicy.org)
East Africa,Uganda,Sudan,Ethiopia,Kenya
Kenya Police Promise Latest Gun Seizure Will Be Less Heavy-handed
7 May 2010
IRIN (UN News)
ISIOLO-SAMBURU (Kenya) - Thousands of security personnel have been deployed across northern Kenya to confiscate weapons after a voluntary disarmament exercise netted only a small fraction of the 50,000 guns thought to be in civilian hands.
Firearms are widespread among pastoralist communities in east Africa, where police are rare and cattle theft and intercommunal conflict is common. Similar operations are taking place in neighbouring Ethiopia, Sudan and Uganda.... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan Army Deployed to Seize Illegal Firearms After Close of Amnesty
27 April 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — The army has been deployed in Rift Valley to help mop up illegal firearms.
The soldiers were deployed to reinforce a forced disarmament operation following the expiry of an amnesty.
"The army moved in three weeks ago," a senior provincial administrator who requested not to be named told Nation.
The official said most of the soldiers had been deployed to border points to block suspects from skipping the country.
Soldiers have been spotted in Pokot North... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudan,Kenya,Tanzania,Ethiopia,Somalia,East Africa
Fix Security in East Africa and Nobody Will Bother Buying Guns Illegally
6 April 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Opinion
Internal Security minister George Saitoti and his permanent secretary Francis Kimemia were in their element when they oversaw the burning of 2,500 small arms at Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi recently.
The minister even took the chance to dabble in a bit of politics. He promised -- as he has done before, on similar occasions -- to enact a law that mandates stiffer penalties for anyone found with illegal arms.
Even as the minister was declaring that illegal guns were going... (GunPolicy.org)
Election Officials Urge Suspension of Kenya Gun Seizure Campaign
5 April 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya — The government has been urged to suspend the planned disarmament operation in Rift Valley to allow registration of voters.
Ms Bilha Kiptugen, the North Rift Interim Independent Electoral Commission coordinator, claimed that the operation would subject residents to harassment and disrupt the registration.
"Some residents on border points might not register as they are likely to flee to neighbouring countries to escape the disarmament exercise," said... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya, Uganda Guard Regional Borders in 'Ruthless' Drive to Seize Guns
4 April 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA, Uganda — Kenya has set up checkpoints at its borders with Uganda, Sudan and Ethiopia ahead of a disarmament exercise to repossess illegal guns.
This has caused panic in the Northern Rift Valley, where cattle rustling is a common practice.
Reports indicate that hundreds of troops have been deployed at Suam, which borders with Kapchorwa and Bukwo districts of Uganda.
Kenyan army trucks were seen in Kitale and Kapenguria deploying soldiers.
Sources said UPDF... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Violence, Insecurity Undermine Development in Kenya's Turkana
31 March 2010
Inter Press Service News Agency
TURKANA, Kenya — The children are afraid. There are armed bandits hiding with stolen animals in the thickets behind Nawoyaregae Primary School in Kaputir Location.
Cattle rustling and gory battles between the neighbouring Turkana and Pokot communities are the order of the day in this area, some 700 kilometres northwest of Nairobi. A long tradition of cattle raiding has been sharpened by competition over grazing land and water.
"The pupils cannot attend classes... (GunPolicy.org)
Drive to Seize Another 50,000 Illegal Guns in Kenya Amid Talk of 'Abuse'
24 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Kenya's pastoralists have spent Sh1.1 billion to arm themselves over the years, it was revealed on Wednesday.
The figure is tallied from the number of firearms confiscated from them during the recent disarmament.
The guns are used for cattle rustling in which many people are killed and livestock stolen.
Internal Security Permanent Secretary Francis Kimemia said this while the minister, Prof George Saitoti, pledged to have a law enacted, with stiffer... (GunPolicy.org)
Retired Police, Soldiers Offer to Help Recover Illegal Guns in Kenya
22 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Retired soldiers and police officers have offered to help recover illegal firearms in banditry-prone northern Kenya.
Kenya Veterans for Peace chief executive officer John Mathenge said members were willing to work with the provincial administration and other security agencies to collect intelligence crucial in the dismantling of small arms cartels in the country.
Mr Mathenge told a peace conference in Nakuru that involvement of veterans in disarmament... (GunPolicy.org)
Cattle Rustler Kept Waiting 7hrs to Give Up AK-47 in Kenya Gun Amnesty
17 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A cattle rustler who travelled more than 200 kilometres to surrender an illegal firearm had to endure a long wait after he found the district commissioner's office deserted.
The 36-year-old thief travelled from Adurkoit village near the Kenya-Uganda border to the Kapenguria District headquarters to hand his AK-47 rifle to DC Alan Machari.
The man, who was escorted by Adurkoit sub-location assistant chief David Yarangiro and Warriors Rehabilitation... (GunPolicy.org)
Ten People Shot Dead in a Week by 'Paramilitary' Police In Kenya
15 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — The training and supervision of Administration Police officers is being questioned following recent shootings involving officers from the force.
Last week, a total of 10 people were killed by APs under unclear circumstances.
Seven taxi drivers were shot dead in Nairobi, a soldier was shot by another AP officer in Kericho and two men responding to a neighbour's distress call were killed in Gatundu.
Security experts blame the cases on the fact that APs do... (GunPolicy.org)
Shooting Assassination of 7 Unarmed Drivers Blamed on Nairobi Police
14 March 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Paul Ngugi cannot help but thank God for saving his life from the merciless bullets of Administration Police officers that snuffed life out of his seven colleagues.
At around midnight, a client walked up to him at his Riruta base where he operates taxi business. The client, Mr Ngugi recalled, asked to be dropped at Dagoretti Corner, a 15-minute drive from Riruta.
"I reluctantly agreed to take him because of the standoff we had earlier had with our boda... (GunPolicy.org)
Pastoralists Fear Brutality, Torture as Kenyan Police Come for Their Guns
22 February 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Pastoral communities in northern Kenya are apprehensive over the disarmament expected to start any time now.
A 70-day amnesty to surrender illegal arms by the pastoralists lapsed at the weekend, with 1,141 guns and 14,980 bullets having been handed over.
The government has also repossessed more than 500 guns initially issued to home guards in the region. This will ensure no one will be having a government-issued gun when the operation begins.
Residents of... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan TV Crew Buy AK-47 in Turkana, Easily Smuggle It Into Nairobi
9 February 2010
Standard (Nairobi)
Buying a gun and transporting the loaded weapon past numerous police checks without detection has never been that easy.
This is what KTN crew proved.
Reporters and a cameraman were on assignment in Turkana last week when they managed to not only buy an AK-47 rifle and bullets, but also transport it to Nairobi.
The reporters said the weapon was not discovered despite checks on the road from Turkana to Nairobi.
They said they initially bought the rifle with seven... (GunPolicy.org)
Large Seizures of Illegal Ammunition Stir Up Sleepy Kenyan Town
2 February 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Despite its proximity to the capital and being the gateway to the world famous Maasai Mara game reserve, Narok has remained a quiet, dusty and sleepy town.
Not even the ongoing wrangling about the conservation of the Mau Forest have stirred it up.
But things changed on December 7, last year. On that day, Narok was thrown into the spotlight when a large cache of ammunition and military hardware were discovered right in the middle of the town.
Broadcast... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Find Another 30,000 Kenyan, Czech Bullets in Suspect's Home
1 February 2010
Associated Press
NAROK, Kenya - Kenya's police chief says officers have seized another cache of bullets at the premises of a man already facing charges for a separate arms seizure last year.
Matthew Iteere says police found the Kenyan and Czech-made bullets in a container at Munir Ahmed's garage. He says police seized two other containers but are yet to confirm their contents.
Most of the 30,000 bullets are Kenyan, Iteere says. Such bullets are made at a government plant and only... (GunPolicy.org)
In Sweep to Seize, Destroy Illegal Firearms, Kenya Police Kill Gun Owner
26 January 2010
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A man was killed and 13 others arrested in a police operation to recover illegal firearms in Trans Mara District.
District commissioner Albert Mwiritza said police shot the man who defied orders to surrender and instead fired his gun at the officers.
He said an AK-47 rifle and 16 rounds of ammunition were found on the deceased.
Among the 13 who were arrested was a taxi driver who was found with nine rounds of ammunition.
The contingent of regular and... (GunPolicy.org)
Deadline Extended by Kenyan Government to 'Mop Up' Illegal Guns
27 December 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
The government has extended the deadline on the general amnesty issued to pastoralists to surrender illegal firearms.
In a statement to the press on Sunday, Internal Security minister Prof George Saitoti said the amnesty has been extended to January 20, 2010.
The minister said his action was prompted by the good response by members of the pastoralist communities on the earlier amnesty that was issued by the Government.
Professor Saitoti said that he expected that the... (GunPolicy.org)
Civilians, Reservists Surrender Assault Weapons in Kenya Gun Ban Drive
21 December 2009
Kenyan Broadcasting Service
Residents of Iisiolo district have surrendered 177 assault rifles to the government in a bid to beat the amnesty period deadline.
Security personnel have in the past two weeks also recovered 7,939 rounds of ammunition from civilians while Kenya police reservists have handed back 217 guns issued to them by the government.
Isiolo DC Mr. James Mwaura commended the residents for surrendering illegal firearms and expressed optimism that those in possession of illegal... (GunPolicy.org)
Race to Smuggle, Buy Assault Weapons as Kenya Pastoralists Re-arm
20 December 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI, Kenya — The demand for automatic weapons in Turkana, Samburu and Pokot has created a huge market and this could explain the recent arms seizures in the country.
Fuelled by persistent droughts, the arms race among the pastoral communities in Northern Kenya has intensified in the last decade with almost 95 per cent of households said to own a firearm.
A two-decade study of the three communities says that by the early 1990s, most households had a... (GunPolicy.org)
High-level Corruption Alleged in Kenya Police Gun Trafficking Scandal
13 December 2009
Standard (Nairobi)
Hardly a week after the Cabinet approved police reforms the Administration Police is in the eye of a new storm over an illegal arms haul.
The force, which has been adversely mentioned in various reports that accuse it of gross human rights violations that include murder and rape during and after the 2007 General Election is fending off allegations that its top brass is involved in clandestine movement of arms.
The centre of the new storm is force commandant Kinuthia... (GunPolicy.org)
British Army Gear Among Large Ammo Cache and Guns Seized in Kenya
10 December 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A Kenyan working at a British Army base has been arrested and detained in connection with the huge cache of weapons seized by police in Narok.
Mr John Wandeto, a civilian, was arrested as businessman Ishmael Munir and a senior Administration Police officer, Superintendent Joseph Maritim, were charged in court for illegally possessing government ammunition.
Mr Wandeto, who is employed at the military base in Nanyuki, was picked up by detectives on Wednesday... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Owner, Police Armourer Arrested Over 100,000-bullet Cache in Kenya
9 December 2009
East African Standard (Nairobi)
A couple was found with more than 100,000 bullets and military gear in their house at Narok town.
Four rifles and two pistols were also found in Mr Munir Ahmed’s house. A seventh pistol was found on his waist when he was arrested in Embakasi, Nairobi, on Monday night.
The seized bullets are usually used in sub-machine guns. Yesterday, police displayed two telescopic machines, five pairs of military boots, assorted British military uniforms, 20 army bags, 20... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Arrest Businessman with 'Licensed' Guns, 100,000 Bullets in Nairobi
8 December 2009
Associated Press
NAIROBI, Kenya -- Kenyan police on Tuesday said they arrested a suspected weapons smuggler with up to 100,000 bullets and an assortment of guns, a huge cache in a country with stringent gun laws.
Police recovered the weapons and ammunition in two raids carried out late Monday on the suspect's house in the capital, Nairobi, and on a business site in the western town of Narok, Police Commissioner Matthew Iteere said.
Ever since violent clashes killed more than 1,000... (GunPolicy.org)
Government to Seize, Destroy Illegal Guns in Kenya's Eastern, North Rift
20 November 2009
Kenya Broadcasting Corporation
The government will mop out all illegal firearms in the insecurity prone areas of North Rift and Upper Eastern parts at the country in order to improve security in those areas.
The minister for state in charge of internal security and provincial Administration, Prof. George Saitoti said over the years, the country had experienced proliferation of small and light fire arms due to its porous borders with her unstable neighbours.
He said prolonged drought and instability... (GunPolicy.org)
Burundi,Kenya,Rwanda,Uganda,Tanzania,East Africa
We Must Eliminate the Menace of Illegal Guns in East Africa
11 November 2009
Observer (Kampala), Opinion
During the ceremonies to mark the 10th anniversary of the re-birth of the East African Community, 3,500 small arms were destroyed in a gesture of fighting the menace of illicit small arms and light weapons.The symbolic destruction of the unlicensed weapons fed into the theme of the anniversary celebrations, which was: 'Peace and security for stability and development.'
Realising the magnitude of the menace of small arms in illegal hands, the delegates to a conference... (GunPolicy.org)
Central Africa,East Africa,Kenya,Rwanda,Somalia,Sudan,Uganda,Burundi,Congo (DRC)
Small Arms Control Group Decries 'Huge' Proliferation of Guns in Africa
3 November 2009
Xinhua
NAIROBI — The Regional Center on Small Arms (RECSA) has decried the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the Great Lakes region, Horn of Africa and bordering states.
RECSA Executive Secretary Francis Sang noted that the center was working in collaboration with the UN Regional Center for Peace and Disarmament in Africa to promote disarmament.
To address this problem, he said, the governments should support the national, sub-regional, regional and... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya 'A Nation on a Timebomb' of Illegal Guns, Death Penalty Mooted
1 November 2009
Standard (Nairobi)
More than 130,000 guns are in the wrongs hands. The Government and experts are unanimous the country is sitting on a time bomb, which could explode any time.
Head of the Kenya National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons David Kimaiyo warns the problem could reach unmanageable levels.
"We have to address this issue once and for all, otherwise it might end up causing a serious social, economic and political problem," he warns.
Past efforts to mop up and burn... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Leads UN Global Gun Trade Treaty Against 'Merchants of Doom'
19 October 2009
East African (Nairobi)
Kenya is pressing within the United Nations for the start of talks on a binding global treaty to restrict the illegal transfer of small arms that take scores of lives in eastern and central Africa every day.
The UN's disarmament committee will decide this month whether to endorse formal negotiations on such a treaty.
Continuing in the leadership role it has played on this issue for several years, Kenya has joined Britain, Japan and four other nations in sponsoring a... (GunPolicy.org)
Human Rights Worker Faces Charge for Discussing Kenya Gun Running
12 October 2009
East African (Nairobi), Opinion
NAIROBI — Mid-last week, the British Broadcasting Corporation broke a story pointing to the possibility of arming, with conventional weapons, of both the Kalenjin and the Gikuyu communities in the Rift Valley.
The story was picked up the next day by local media houses — with key quotations to back up the BBC claims being given by Ken Wafula, who works with a human rights organisation in Eldoret.
The government, predictably, came out to deny the possibility —... (GunPolicy.org)
Influx of Illegal Guns as Kenyans 'Rearm for Ethnic Arms Race, 2012 Poll'
7 October 2009
BBC News
Rival ethnic groups in Kenya who fought after the 2007 election are rearming in readiness for violence at the 2012 poll, a BBC investigation has found.
It is feared villagers in Rift Valley province are moving from traditional weapons such as spears to machine guns.
Government officials insist they are tackling the influx of illegal arms.
But they have been widely criticised for failing to punish the ringleaders of violence after the 2007 election, in which 1,300... (GunPolicy.org)
Owning an Assault Weapon Could Soon Be a Hanging Offence in Kenya
6 October 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Owners of illegal guns and police officers who rent their firearms to criminals could soon face the death penalty.
Law enforcement agencies are pushing for tighter gun control and have proposed a raft of tough measures to be discussed by the Cabinet soon.
These include an amendment to the Firearms Act, the law governing the legal ownership of guns.
According to the latest proposals contained in the National Policy on Small Arms and Light Weapons, no one will be... (GunPolicy.org)
Harmonisation of Gun Control Law Key to Kenya's War on Small Arms
27 August 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
The Kenya government has started harmonising crime laws to boost the war on small arms.
Solicitor-general Wanjuki Muchemi said the Organised Crime Bill, Terrorism Bill and International Crime Bill are being amended to help combat crime.
The changes include harsher penalties for illegal possession of guns, he said, adding that the amendments also seek to address the misuse of firearms by police officers.
Light weapons
"As a commitment to addressing transnational... (GunPolicy.org)
6000 Arrows, 11 Guns Surrendered in Kenya's Illegal Weapon Amnesty
9 August 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — The government plans to extend the amnesty period for those willing to surrender weapons used during the post-election violence.
The amnesty is to expire in two weeks but the ministry for Special Programmes said the period may be extended.
Some 6,000 arrows and 11 guns have already been... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Destroys 22,634 Guns, But Criminals Still Have More Than 10,000
30 June 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
More than 10,000 firearms are in the hands of criminals in Kenya today, posing a big threat to security, a government body revealed on Tuesday.
The National Focal Point on Small Arms has thus drafted a memo to the cabinet seeking to introduce harsh penalties on people convicted of gun crime.
Initial proposals pushed for the death sentence but have since been scaled down to the life sentence, head of the unit David Kimaiyo said.
Human rights group have prevailed upon... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya's Killer Gangs Increasingly Own, Rent Handguns, Assault Rifles
20 June 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Saturday's shooting of permanent secretary Kinuthia Murugu is the latest demonstration of a resurgence of gun crimes in the country, especially in Nairobi.
Other high-profile cases in the past week include the killing of a university lecturer and the shooting dead of three people in the city's Eastlands, on suspicion of being police informers.
Prof Peter Kenya was shot dead on Wednesday night in Zimmerman estate as he frantically hooted. Earlier, a top police... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia,Ethiopia,Eritrea,Uganda,Kenya,Yemen,Djibouti
Gun Dealers Revel in Profits from Arms Trafficking, Somali War Business
9 June 2009
Reuters
MOGADISHU — Sitting on a mat at home between taking orders for arms on his two mobile phones, Osman Bare gives thanks for the riches flowing from Somalia's war.
"I have only been in the weapon business five years, but I have erected three villas. I have also opened shops for my two wives," said the 40-year-old, one of about 400 Somali men operating in Mogadishu's main weapons market.
"Peace means bankruptcy for us."
Despite a U.N. arms embargo on Somalia, the Horn... (GunPolicy.org)
Street Shootings Claim Prominent Victims, 'Gunmen Run Wild' in Nairobi
6 May 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
A spate of unresolved killings in Nairobi and its environs over the past two months has raised the alarm over the level of gun crimes in Kenya's capital city. From March, over 26 people have been shot and killed in circumstances that suggest planned murder rather than opportunistic crimes or robberies gone wrong.
The number could be much higher given that the Nation figures are based only on reports of high-profile killings. The trend is even more alarming because in... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Demand Illegal Guns in Rift Valley, Residents Cry Foul
17 April 2009
Standard (Nairobi)
The Government has launched a security operation to mop up illegal firearms at the troubled Kwanza and West Pokot border.
Some members of the Pokot community, however, claimed security officers carrying out the operation were harassing them.
But police dismissed the claims saying they were there to deal with armed gangs that have been raiding homes.
"They attack and kill people and come up with baseless claims whenever we conduct crackdowns," said a police officer.... (GunPolicy.org)
Death Row Beckons for Illegal Gun Owners Under New Law for Kenya
17 March 2009
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Possessing an unlicensed gun could soon earn you the death sentence as the Kenyan government steps up the war on crime.
And police officers who hired out their guns to criminals could also join armed robbers on death row.
Those who sold illicit firearms will not be spared either, if Parliament adopts proposed amendments to the Firearms Act.
Innocent Person
At present, a person found in possession of a firearm without a licence faces up to 15 years in prison.... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Launches National Gun Marking Scheme to Curb Theft, Trafficking
15 December 2008
Kenya Broadcasting Corporation
Kenya is set to be among the first countries in the region to launch its gun marking exercise in line with the requirements of the Nairobi protocol on prevention, control and reduction of small arms.
The exercise planned to kick off on Tuesday, follows the acquisition of an electronic marking machine from the regional center on small arms.
The country has over the years been a victim of crimes resulting from proliferated firearms from neighboring countries.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
AK-47s Cross Borders Freely in Warlords' Gun Markets of North Rift Valley
10 December 2008
Standard (Nairobi)
Ethokon Lumana Engolon was relaxed and enjoying herding his cattle and goats 500 meters away from his Manyatta in Kalimorock, Turkana South District, when his life was transformed.
The day had began well and his mind occasionally wandered as he took pride of how his stock had doubled and fattened.
He was excited that with the onset of short rains and maturing of new pasture, the long trek in search of water and pasture would temporarily be forgotten.
Excruciating... (GunPolicy.org)
Proliferation of Guns in Rift Valley Threatens Development in East Africa
29 October 2008
Indiana University Press, Book review
The small arms threat to peace, security, and sustainable development.
"A path-breaking examination of a highly important and hitherto largely neglected topic." — Mark Leopold, University of Sussex.
"A systematic overview of the effect of small arms on pastoralism and governance in Karamoja and Samburu/Laikipia/Turkana." — Philip Winter, Rift Valley Institute
Recent estimates indicate that more than 640 million small arms and 16 billion rounds of ammunition... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan Police Blame Flow of Illegal Guns on Somali, Ethiopian Dealers
27 October 2008
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
A security operation has been launched in North Eastern Province to curb the influx of illegal fire arms from Somalia and Ethiopia.
Speaking to the Nation on phone on Monday, Internal Security assistant minister Orwa Ojodeh said the operation started two days ago.
"We have ordered an operation in Mandera to flush out dealers in illegal arms from the neighbouring Somalia and Ethiopia," he said, noting that immigrants had taken the local residents hostage.
But the... (GunPolicy.org)
Ammunition Factory Implicated in Kenya's Post-election Armed Violence
19 October 2008
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Guns from Mt Elgon and an employee of Eldoret bullet factory assisted the gangs who unleashed violence in the North Rift, the Waki commission report reveals.
It lays bare an intricate plan, design and execution of the violence in the area that attracted the country's and world's attention when women and children were burnt alive in a church.
The report, on the basis of evidence given by witnesses, indicates that politicians and athletes from the region... (GunPolicy.org)
Global Gun Trade Thrives: Recent Example 40,000 Kalashnikovs to Kenya
14 October 2008
Time (World)
PARIS — Need to start a war? No problem. While stock markets gyrate and financial institutions (and even whole countries, like Iceland) teeter on bankruptcy, one global industry is still drawing plenty of high-end trades and profits: weapons.
In a Paris courtroom last week, 42 officials went on trial for taking millions in kickbacks and organizing huge arms commissions from the Angolan government during the mid-1990s. In the dock were such big names as Charles... (GunPolicy.org)
African Nations Discuss Curbs on Gunrunning, Global Gun Trade Treaty
5 September 2008
African Press Agency
NAIROBI — A two-day conference which brought together ministers and civil society organizations from 50 African countries, United Nations officials and arms control groups to help form a united position on a convention on arms proliferation, ended in Nairobi on Thursday night with African countries agreeing to propose imposing sanctions to countries behind irresponsible arms transfers leading to the destabilization of African governments.
Speaking to reporters in... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Calls Influx of Illegal Guns 'Main Cause of Instability' in West Africa
3 September 2008
Xinhua
NAIROBI — Kenya said on Wednesday the proliferation of small arms and light weapons were the main cause of instability in the region.
Speaking at a meeting which brought together African ministers, UN disarmament officials and arms control groups in Nairobi, Foreign Minister Moses Wetangula blamed the influx of uncontrolled trade of arms in Africa to European and Asian countries.
Wetangula said Asian and European nations were taking advantage of the lack of a strong... (GunPolicy.org)
Loopholes Aid African Gunrunners: Kenya Touts Global Gun Trade Treaty
3 September 2008
African Press Agency
NAIROBI, Kenya — Serious arms proliferation in most African countries go unchecked due to loopholes in national laws, Kenya Foreign Minister Moses Wetangula said on Wednesday at the opening of an arms treaty conference in Nairobi.
Reading a speech on his behalf, his deputy Richard Onyonka said African countries lose $264 million annually in human life and economic potential due to arms proliferation.
He said conventional arms find themselves in African countries... (GunPolicy.org)
African Nations, UN Meet in Kenya to Canvass Global Gun Trade Treaty
3 September 2008
BBC News
African ministers are due to meet UN disarmament officials and arms control groups to help form a united position on a conventional arms trade treaty.
The talks in Nairobi have been called by the Kenyan government.
Arms control groups argue that Africa has lost billions of dollars in conflicts fuelled by unregulated weapons sales.
They also say that a proposed treaty could significantly reduce the human and economic cost.
Workable agreement
According to one... (GunPolicy.org)
High Demand for Guns Heightens Insecurity in Kenya's Pastoral Regions
7 August 2008
IRIN (UN News)
NAIROBI — The widespread availability of firearms in the northern regions of Kenya has exacerbated insecurity and more people are being killed during livestock raids.
At least 60 people died while another 15 were injured following clashes on 29 July between the Turkana and Pokot communities in northwestern Kenya, according to the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS).
"Most of the injured had bullet and [knife] wounds," said Anthony Mwangi, KRCS public relations manager.... (GunPolicy.org)
No Response Yet to UN Report on Gun Trafficking in Kenya
8 July 2008
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Almost three months after the UN Security Council released a report saying a shipment of arms from Somalia had entered Kenya, the Government is yet to make its findings known.
When reached for comment Monday, police spokesman Eric Kiraithe said: "The report has not come to my attention". He requested for a copy to be faxed to him.
"That is a very sensitive report that I am not aware of. Sometimes everyone is so engrossed in their duties that when they get such... (GunPolicy.org)
African Nations Collaborate to Prioritise Crackdown on Gun Trafficking
10 June 2008
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
African countries will develop a combined approach to deal with the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons, an African Union (AU) official said on Monday.
AU director for peace and security department Geofrey Mugumya said African heads of states were committed to combating the problem jointly to help in taming internal conflicts which have torn apart some countries.
Addressing journalists on the AU commission conference in Mombasa, Mr Mugumya noted... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenyan Prison Warden Arrested Selling Ammunition in Nairobi Supermarket
29 May 2008
News24 (Cape Town)
NAIROBI — Kenyan police have arrested a prison warden who was caught selling ammunition in a Nairobi supermarket, says a spokesperson.
The warden attached to the capital's Kamiti maximum-security prison was detained on Wednesday after being caught red-handed, said police spokesperson Eric Kiraithe.
"Sixteen rounds of ammunition for a G3 rifle means utter devastation. The warden will be charged with illegal possession of ammunition," he said.
Kenyan security... (GunPolicy.org)
Concern Over Increase in Illegal Guns After Post-Poll Violence in Kenya
26 May 2008
IRIN (UN News)
NAIROBI — Very little has been done to check the increase in illegal guns in parts of Kenya that were hardest hit by the post-election crisis, an official of a peace and development NGO said on 23 May.
"The small arms problem is bigger at this point than at any other time in our country's history, especially owing to the post-election violence, which created new markets for illegal arms more than ever before," Mutuku Nguli, chief executive of the Peace and... (GunPolicy.org)
East African Nations Team Up to Curb Gun Smuggling, Trafficking
5 May 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
MBALE — Security chiefs from Uganda and Kenya have stepped up efforts to end persistent arms trafficking along the common border.
Last week, Uganda's and Kenya's joint border commissioners met in Mbale to fine-tune plans to stop the vice.
The Minister for Presidency, Dr Beatrice Wabudeya, also attended the meeting at Mbale Resort Hotel.
According to the army, the strategy is aimed at reducing gun-flow across the border. through cordial interactions between the... (GunPolicy.org)
Give Kenyans Guns: AK-47s Maintain Social, Economic, Political Equilibrium
26 April 2008
Daily Nation (Nairobi), Opinion
NAIROBI — For decades, Kerio Valley and the adjoining areas have been rocked by intermittent ethnic violence but they have never produced an internal refugee. Yet Eldoret, Kericho, Kuresoi, Molo, Nakuru and the surrounding areas produced hundreds of thousands of displaced people after less than six weeks of post-election violence.
What is the difference between these two sets of volatile regions in the Rift Valley? The answer is simple; in Kerio, the communities... (GunPolicy.org)
Shootings, Gun Crime Bring Calls for Urgent Firearm Seizures in Kenya
25 April 2008
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Residents and leaders in the larger Laikipia district have appealed to the Government to mop up illegal firearms in the area following a fresh wave of killings by bandits.
The call follows increased cases of murder, robbery and stock theft. Residents have been killed by bandits and cattle rustlers and hundreds of cattle, sheep and goats stolen. Laikipia West district commissioner, Fredrick Shisia estimates the number of illegal firearms in the area at... (GunPolicy.org)
East Africa,Kenya,Uganda,Tanzania,Rwanda,Burundi,Somalia,Sudan,Seychelles,Eritrea,Djibouti,Ethiopia,Congo (DRC)
East African Nations Will Mark All State-owned Guns to Reduce Leakage
21 April 2008
East African (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — All firearms in the Great Lakes Region, East Africa and the Horn of Africa will soon be marked with country codes, force code and serial numbers in the fight against the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
A workshop organised by the Regional Centre on Small Arms and held recently on Kenya's South Coast was told that 12 manual arms-marking machines have already been purchased through funding from the US government and will be distributed to each... (GunPolicy.org)
