Gun Policy News
Firearm violence, gun control and small arms
Uganda Increases Costs for Gun Licenses
27 August 2021
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Government has proposed to increase gun licensing fees from Shs150,000 to Shs5 million for private gun owners according to the 2017/2018 financial year budget estimates.
The development was communicated by the State Minister for Planning David Bahati while appearing before the Parliamentary Budget Committee.
This follows an increase in gun related crimes in the country with the most recent being the murder of AIGP Felix Kaweesi, his driver and body guard by armed... (GunPolicy.org)
52 Guns Recovered Over Disarmament Exercise in Uganda
17 August 2021
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
The joint security force of police and the army has cautioned residents and others wishing to visit Karamoja to desist from using motorcycles to access the area.
The warning was issued by Karamoja Regional Police Spokesperson, Mr Michael Longole, while addressing the media on Monday.
He said riding motorcycles through the lonely routes such as Moroto, Kotido, Moroto, Nakapiripirit, Moroto Nabulatuk should be avoided at this time when the disarmament exercise is taking... (GunPolicy.org)
The Roots of Pre-Election Carnage by Uganda Security Forces
20 January 2021
Conversation (Uganda)
For two days in November 2020, Uganda witnessed some of the most violent riots in a decade. The riots were triggered by the arrest of opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, who is challenging the incumbent Yoweri Museveni in the February 14 2021 election. Authorities alleged that Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, had consistently disregarded COVID-19 related election campaign guidelines limiting gatherings to no more than 200 people.
In the violence... (GunPolicy.org)
Democratization of Gun Ownership in Uganda
4 October 2020
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
On November 12, 2016, Mr Matthew Kanyamunyu was arrested on suspicion that he drew a pistol and fatally shot Kenneth Akena after the social worker sideswiped his car at Forest Mall in Lugogo, Kampala.
In the shooting's aftermath, questions continue swirling around crime, punishment, impunity and even tribalism. Predictably, these questions obviate other questions about gun ownership.
Even though government has increased license fees for individuals and companies... (GunPolicy.org)
The Do's and Don'ts of Gun-handling in Uganda
11 September 2020
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
On the morning of September 5, a video clip showed State minister for Labour Mwesigwa Rukutana grabbing a gun from a police officer before aiming it at people in a car.
What followed is a long story. I review this safety and security incident by questioning and trying to answer to the question. This article tries to show what should be followed when one has or uses a firearm.
Firearms have different sizes and they include pistols, AK47, machine guns, anti-aircraft... (GunPolicy.org)
Licensed Guns and Homicides in Uganda
30 March 2019
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Kampala- At least 16 people have been shot dead by licensed guns since the start of the year, a search through publicly available information shows.
Five of the victims were shot dead by security guards after they were involved in arguments with the guards or were accused of committing crime, while the rest were killed by policemen on accusations of being criminal suspects.
With the killing in cold blood of Ronald Ssebulime last weekend still fresh, however, it is... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda to Audit All Police Guns
15 December 2017
Daily Monitor (Uganda)
The Inspector General of Police, Gen Kale Kayihura has ordered for an audit of all police guns.
In his directive to the in charge of classified stores, Commissioner of Police Good Mwesigwa, Gen Kayihura says the full audit is to start with all police pistols.
He has also demanded for a full accountability of all police pistols and other firearms adding that a computerized register of all the guns be developed.
In a letter dated December 13, 2017, Gen Kayihura also... (GunPolicy.org)
Government Raises Firearm Licence Fees in Uganda
25 April 2017
Observer (Kampala)
Government has increased license fees for individuals and companies importing firearms into the country.
Estimates of non-tax revenue (NTR) rates tabled before Parliament by the finance ministry show that gun importers and owners will part with Shs 5 million each.
Currently, any company which seeks a permit to acquire or import a firearm pays Shs 1 million per year. A private security company also pays Shs 200,000 for an application to import or acquire firearms.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Destroys 6,000 Illegal Guns
21 November 2016
K FM (Uganda)
In an effort to reduce the amount of illicit arms, the government has today destroyed 6000 small arms and weapons collected by police in a nationwide exercise.
In his speech during the exercise in Bukasa, Wakiso District, the state minister for internal affairs Mario Obigo Kania said such arms pose a major security threat if poorly managed and stored.
He also added that improving human security shouldn't be a responsibility of only the security agencies but also... (GunPolicy.org)
Rwanda,Kenya,Tanzania,Burundi,Uganda
Armed Violence and Illegal Guns in East Africa - Recent Study
26 July 2016
New Times (Rwanda)
East African Community (EAC) member countries are meeting in Kigali for a validation workshop on the study by the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA) on the status of armed crimes in Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.
The report dubbed 'Analysis of Armed Crime Rates' released yesterday, in Kigali was conducted between 2010 and March 2016 with the support of African Development Bank (AfDB).
According to the report, Rwanda registered 421 cases related to... (GunPolicy.org)
Ethiopia,Kenya,Burundi,Tanzania,Rwanda,Uganda
Kenya's Private Gun Ownership the Largest in East Africa
11 July 2016
East African (Nairobi)
Kenya has the largest number of guns in civilian hands in eastern Africa amid rising gun attacks while Rwanda has the least, a global survey shows.
Data from Sidney-based GunPolicy.org, a website backed by the United Nations, puts the estimated number of guns possessed by Kenyan civilians at about 680,000, comprising licit and illicit firearms.
Tanzania has 550,000 guns in private hands, Uganda (400,000), Ethiopia (320,000), Burundi (100,000) and 58,000 for... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Govt Swoop: Gun Owners Must Register All Firearms
15 April 2016
Observer (Kampala)
By April 30, all firearms in civilians possession must have been registered, the ministry of Internal Affairs said in its latest attempt to crack down on illegal small arms.
Unregistered firearms will be declared illegal, the minister of state for Internal Affairs James Baba said on Monday.
Firearm registration, the minister said, is meant to control small arms and light weapons owned by civilians and maintain proper national control over government stockpiles of all... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda: Surrender Illegal Guns or We Send You to Heaven
30 March 2016
Monitor (Kampala)
LIRA — Lira Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr Emmanuel Mwaka Lutukumoi, has issued a directive for those in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them or face the full force of the law.
The directive follows concerns over a high percentage of firearms that are currently believed to be in the hands of wrong people in the district, once a war-torn area.
In a statement on Monday, Lutukumoi, who also chairs the district security committee, said a major... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun-Related Homicides Rising in Uganda - Report
9 April 2014
Observer (Kampala)
The number of cases of murder by shooting in Uganda rose by 14 per cent last year, the annual police report has shown.
The 2013 Crime, Traffic and Road Safety report, which was released in Kampala on Monday, shows that the police investigated 131 cases of gun-shot murder, compared to 115 the year before. Some 192 people were shot dead last year, the report said. Of these, 163 were men, 20 were women, six were boys and three were girls.
Releasing the report, Inspector... (GunPolicy.org)
South Sudan,Somalia,Burundi,Liberia,Ghana,United States,Europe,Zimbabwe,Uganda,Tanzania,Sudan,Nigeria,Namibia,Kenya,Ethiopia,Africa
How Disarmament in Africa Got More Complicated
5 November 2013
IPI Global Observatory
Africa is ground zero in the international debate on controlling the small arms and light weapons trade. For more than a decade, diplomatic activity to contain arms and ammunition transfers has been animated by a concern with instability and contagion generated by the continent's many wars. Leading think tanks, research groups, and advocacy organizations have repeatedly drawn attention to the way the burden of armed violence in Africa is a product of low-tech assault... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,Somalia,Colombia,Kenya,United States
Interpol Chief Suggests Armed Citizenry to Counter Terrorism
21 October 2013
ABC News (USA)
Interpol Secretary General Ronald Noble said today the U.S. and the rest of the democratic world is at a security crossroads in the wake of last month's deadly al-Shabab attack at a shopping mall in Nairobi, Kenya – and suggested an answer could be in arming civilians.
In an exclusive interview with ABC News, Noble said there are really only two choices for protecting open societies from attacks like the one on Westgate mall where so-called "soft targets" are hit:... (GunPolicy.org)
One Dead, Six Injured in Uganda Bar Shooting
7 October 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
One person was shot dead and six others injured and admitted in critical condition at Mulago national referral hospital when an unidentified man opened fire following a disagreement with his girlfriend in a city pub on Sunday.
The 5.00am incident, the Police said, happened at Top pub a popular hangout on William street- the second such incident at the place in four years.
Four people are so far in police custody over the incident. The man armed with a pistol is said... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Police Recover Over 100 Guns in Disarmament Campaign
9 September 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
At least 124 guns have been recovered from the districts of Napak, Amudat, Nakapiripirit, Moroto as well as parts of Teso, Bugisu and Sebei.
Also recovered were 1,600 bullets and military gear.
UPDF 3rd Division spokesperson Lt. Jimmy Omara said they were recovering fewer guns than in the past when over 400 guns would be recovered within a month in just four districts. He said there had been tremendous improvement in security, adding that the rampant killings that... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police Out to Stop Guns From Uganda
4 September 2013
Star (Kenya)
Police in Bungoma have moved to curb the influx of illegal firearms from the neigbouring Uganda. Speaking to the Star yesterday, county commissioner Mohamed Maalim said the firearms from the Uganda are the main cause of insecurity in the [county].
"We have instituted measures that will ensure thorough checks at our border points of Malaba and Lwakhakha to ensure that firearms are not sneaked from Uganda,"he said.
Guns are easily available in Uganda with security... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Police say Crime Guns from Uganda
13 June 2013
Star (Kenya)
KITALE - Kitale deputy police boss Duncan Nguthu has said two guns and 150 rounds of ammunition recovered from three criminal suspects killed at Kiminini recently came from Uganda.
Addressing mourners at Kamukuywa during the burial ceremony of a security officer, Nguthu said the equipment had not been used.
Last week, three suspected criminals were lynched and their bodies burnt beyond recognition by the public. Nguthu asked leaders and chiefs to revive community... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya Authorities Plan Crackdown on Illegal Guns
10 May 2013
Star (Kenya)
Western PC James Serian has said the regional security team is profiling people with illegal arms. "There are illegal firearms in Western particularly in Mt Elgon, Malaba, Teso, Busia, along the Kenya and even Kakamega. Currently we are profiling all persons we suspect have fire arms," said Serian.
He said the provincial security team will start an operation to recover all guns in wrong hands in the area. Serian said the porous Kenya-Uganda border could be blamed for... (GunPolicy.org)
Armed Violence Provokes Ban on Gun Licensing in Uganda
27 March 2013
Monitor (Kampala)
Kampala - Police have said they have stopped licensing of guns to people and ordered private security organisations to deploy more than one security guard at business premises.
The measure comes at the backdrop of increased armed robberies in the city and its suburbs that have claimed lives of more than four prominent businessmen since the year started.
"We are calling upon private security agencies to deploy about two or more security guards at every station as this... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Gangs Stealing Weapons from Police, Terrorising Citizens
22 March 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
The Police have listed over a dozen criminal gangs that are terrorising residents in and around Kampala.
The media has recently been awash with reports of daring thugs raiding police stations and making off with weapons, killing or injuring security personnel and civilians in addition to rampant robberies of money and property.
Recently thugs raided Mpala police station on Entebbe road and stole a gun and ammunition. Last week a gang raided the suburb of Bweyogerere... (GunPolicy.org)
Strict Gun Control Is Long Overdue in Uganda
14 March 2013
Observer (Kampala), Editorial
The minister of Defence, Dr Crispus Kiyonga, has promised stricter gun control in the aftermath of a shooting incident in Bombo town council in which 10 people were killed.
Kiyonga told Parliament on Wednesday that security organs are to review their discipline and gun control measures in a bid to achieve institutional tight control on firearms. This is long overdue as there have been far too many shooting incidents in Uganda involving armed security officers over the... (GunPolicy.org)
West Africa,East Africa,Kenya,Uganda,Rwanda,Tanzania,Burundi
East Africa Civil Society Calls for Tougher Laws to Curb Illegal Gun Trade
27 January 2013
New Vision (Kampala)
The East Africa Action Network on small arms (EAANSA) has called for tougher laws and increased vigilance among member states of the East African community (EAC) to curb illegal movement of small arms and light weapons.
According to the executive secretary EAANSA, Richard Mugisha, considering that the dynamics and movement of small arms and light weapons (SALWs) transcend the political boarders that divide state parties within East Africa, there is need for increased... (GunPolicy.org)
Czech Republic,Hungary,Côte d'Ivoire,Iran,Guinea,Niger,Russia,South Sudan,China,Uganda,Afghanistan,Nigeria,Kenya,Iraq,Congo (DRC)
Trail of Bullet Casings Leads from Africa's Wars Back to Iran
11 January 2013
New York Times
The first clues appeared in Kenya, Uganda and what is now South Sudan. A British arms researcher surveying ammunition used by government forces and civilian militias in 2006 found Kalashnikov rifle cartridges he had not seen before. The ammunition bore no factory code, suggesting that its manufacturer hoped to avoid detection.
Within two years other researchers were finding identical cartridges circulating through the ethnic violence in Darfur. Similar ammunition then... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,Ethiopia,Kenya,South Sudan,Somalia,East Africa,Tanzania
Special Investigation: How Smugglers are Flooding Kenya with Guns
8 January 2013
Star (Kenya), Series
There are estimated 530,000-680,000 firearms in the wrong hands in Kenya. The number of illegal arms has grown over the years and is said to fuel the conflicts witnessed within Kenya and the region.
In an investigation that took close to a year, our correspondent Kassim Mohamed tracked down some of the people who smuggle small arms and light weapons into Kenya and unveils a dangerous trend that can affect the current peace if nothing is done by not just the Kenyan... (GunPolicy.org)
Somalia,Congo (DRC),Kenya,South Sudan,Sudan,Uganda,East Africa
East Africa States to Work Together to Reduce Gun Trafficking
16 October 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
Directors of Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Directorates (CIID) in the East African region on Monday resolved to support Somalia to neutralise gun trafficking across the region.
The directors said arms traffickers were taking advantage of Somalia's instability and location next to the sea.
The Inspector General of Police, Lt. Gen. Kale Kayihura, said Somalia, which is now a reconstructed state, is ready to halt and thrash all culprits in gun trafficking... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Police Blame Gun, Ammo Smuggling for Rise in Murder Rate
24 August 2012
Observer (Kampala)
Police yesterday said murders in the country were on the rise because of the rampant influx of guns and ammunition through Uganda's porous borders.
Police publicist Simon Kuteesa told journalists that most of the murders in the country were a result of shooting, mob justice, assault, suicide and love gone bad.
"The major challenge we have is that our borders are porous and there is no way we can fight the influx of the ammunitions," Kuteesa said, as police released... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Police, Army Mark Own Weapons to Curb Illicit Trade
10 August 2012
Observer (Kampala)
Hoping to curb the use of illicit small arms and light weapons, the police, army and prisons will inscribe electronic bar codes on all guns in their armouries.
The country has recently been rocked by violent crimes, especially murders and armed robberies. And the police and other security organs blame this increased wave of criminal activities on illegal firearms. Speaking at a recent national workshop for the media and armed forces on the small arms and light weapons,... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya,East Africa,Syria,Uganda
Stemming Gun Violence in Uganda
28 July 2012
Independent (Kampala)
United Nations diplomats from over 190 countries, including Uganda, are at the organisation's headquarters in New York discussing a pact to regulate the global arms trade.
The Global Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) would especially check the illicit trade in arms in a global arms industry that, while amounting to US$60 billion, remains unregulated. Advocates for the treaty say this lack of regulation of the arms industry is catastrophic, as it fuels conflicts that claim... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearms, Ammo Marking to Control Illicit Gun Possession in Uganda
13 July 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
The Commissioner of Police and national coordinator of Focal Point on Small Arms, Ahmed Wafuba has advised regional governments to put in place measures that will help curb illicit possession of fire arms.
According to the Nairobi Protocol, the Great Lakes regions and the Horn of Africa agreed to control as well as regulate the transfer, possession, storage, disposal plus destruction of small arms and light weapons.
Despite the agreement, the region is challenged with... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya,Somalia,Ethiopia,Uganda,South Sudan
Rising Tide of Small Arms in Kenya
3 July 2012
IRIN (UN News)
DADAAB/ISIOLO — A spate of "terror" attacks, aid worker kidnappings and heightened ethnic conflict in northern Kenya have fuelled demand for small arms by civilians and criminals, say security officials.
On 2 July, four foreign aid workers - all employees of NGO Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) - were rescued inside Somalia and returned to Kenya after being kidnapped in eastern Kenya's Dadaab refugee settlement; their driver was killed during the kidnap. In October... (GunPolicy.org)
East African Community Observes Week of Action Against Gun Violence
24 June 2012
New Times (Rwanda)
The Global Week of Action against Gun Violence in East Africa kicked off in Kampala, Uganda on June, 18 with a series of activities to raise awareness of how gun violence occurs, its impact on people's lives and what should be done to stop the "Gun-Culture".
The event is coordinated by the EAC Secretariat in collaboration with the Uganda-based Eastern Africa Action Network on Small Arms (EAANSA) and the German International Cooperation agency (GIZ).
The week will... (GunPolicy.org)
East African Community Experts to Craft Common Position for Arms Treaty
20 June 2012
Citizen (Dar es Salaam)
ARUSHA - Security experts from partner States of the East African Community (EAC) are finalising plans to craft a common position that the region will present next month at the UN ArmsTrade Treaty (ATT) in New York.
Ahmed Wafuba, the coordinator of Uganda's National Focal Point (NFP) on Small Arms, says that the move will enhance efforts aimed at ridding the region of illegal firearms that have led to loss of innocent lives.
"We have come up with a position and it... (GunPolicy.org)
Firearms Amnesty in Northern Uganda Failed to Recover any Guns at All
20 June 2012
Institute for War & Peace Reporting
After a firearms amnesty in northern Uganda failed to recover any weapons at all, experts criticised the ongoing disarmament programme for failing to engage effectively with the local population.
The scheme is the latest to be launched in northern Uganda since a 20-year conflict with the rebel Lord's Resistance Army, LRA ended in 2006. The conflict led to the death of more than 100,000 people while nearly two million were forced into displacement camps. Thousands of... (GunPolicy.org)
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)
Uganda Soldiers, Officers Found Selling Guns to Be Subject to Firing Squad
11 April 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
Any UPDF soldier or officer found selling firearms or ammunitions to criminals will be subjected to firing squad in full public view, a General in the army warned on Tuesday.
Speaking at a pipping ceremony of recently propmoted officers, a visibly riled Brig. Hussein Adda, the camp commandant Bombo said the firing squad which is provided for under the UPDF Act is better as compared to incarcerating the culprits in Luzira "because imprisoning will not solve the... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Government Asked to Expedite the Process of Small Arms Collection
8 April 2012
Uganda Pulse
Gulu Resident District Commissioner Chrissy Owori Odoi has called on government to expedite the process of collecting small arms which are still in circulation among people in Uganda.
Owori says small arms still pose a big threat to this country and may retard development if it is look at carefully.
Owori says the current peace which the northern region has achieved still stands in threat if small arms are in abundance on the wrong hands.
Speaking during a... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Soldiers Sell AK-47 Bullets to Gangsters in Local Pubs
7 April 2012
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
'In Summary
'Mine was an easy purchase'
It was a Sunday when I called on an old friend at Makindye. We settled at a pub on Salama Road. Here, we found a lively group of five men chatting over bottles of beer. They conducted their conversation in Luganda and Swahili, and owing to the kind of calls they consistently made, it was clear there was something cooking.
We took up seats close to their table and could clearly eavesdrop on their conversation. One of the men... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Govt Marks Police, Army, Civilians Firearms to Reduce Crime
27 March 2012
Observer (Kampala)
As part of this year's mission to create a pro-people justice system, the Justice Law and Order Sector, based at the ministry of Internal Affairs, last week labeled guns before the general public at the Railway grounds.
Anthony Nahaima, legal officer for the National Focal Point on Arms and Light Weapons — the department that handles the gun labeling process — says to date, they have labeled 80 percent of police guns and 50 percent of the army's. The labeling... (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)
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)
Philippines,Trinidad & Tobago,Zimbabwe,Zambia,Uganda,Tanzania,Senegal,Congo (DRC),Pakistan,Nigeria,Niger,Namibia,Morocco,Mauritania,Malawi,Madagascar,Côte d'Ivoire,Burkina Faso,Botswana,Egypt,Angola,Algeria,South Africa,Ghana,China,United States,Austria,Russia,Israel,Bahrain,Asia,Africa,Brazil
Brazil Arms Exports: Country Preaches Peace, Sells Tons of Arms
28 February 2012
Huffington Post (USA)
A small, scratched metal can thrown on the ground created Brazil's first diplomatic embarrassment of 2012. The canister of tear gas had been collected by pro-democracy activists in Bahrain. Stamped across the can in blue was a Brazilian flag and the words 'MADE IN BRAZIL.'
One year had passed since Bahrain became the stage for pro-democracy protests by the majority Shiites against the Sunni monarchy commanded by king Hamad bin-Isa Khalifa. The protesters had been... (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)
Uganda Government Drafts Tougher Firearms Act to Scale Down Gun Misuse
23 February 2012
Monitor (Kampala)
The government is drafting a bill to regulate the possession of firearms held by security agencies and civilians. The Firearms, Ammunition and Related Materials Bill seeks to harmonize all existing laws governing possession of guns, including the Firearms Act 1970.
The act only regulates ownership of firearms held by individuals, while those held by the police and security agencies are governed under separate laws.
Under the new licensing system, the Government will... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,Turkey,Scotland,United Kingdom,Oceania
Dunblane Father Urges End to Global Gun Trade Killing 1500 a Day
12 February 2012
Daily Record (Scotland)
A global campaign to control the trade in deadly weapons will be stepped up at Glasgow University tomorrow when anti-gun campaigner Dr Mick North - whose daughter Sophie was killed in Dunblane tragedy in 1996 - leads a new push by Oxfam and Amnesty towards a United Nations arms treaty.
Here, he explains why the issue means the difference between life and death.
_________
Next month marks the 16th anniversary of my daughter's death.
Sophie was just five when a gunman... (GunPolicy.org)
Five Days after Uganda Shooting, New Gun Control Policy Launched
2 February 2012
Monitor (Kampala)
It is perhaps a prefect coincidence that the launch of a new policy to oversee fire arms and ammunition in the country came just five days after a plain clothed low-ranking officer of the police force, shot at an unarmed crowd in Port Bell, Luzira, killing at least one.
The incident was captured in its entirety on video footage, which was later aired on nation-wide television.It raised important questions about gun control in Uganda, about who is allowed to own a gun... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Free Zones, Gun Owner Testing Proposed for New Law in Uganda
30 January 2012
Monitor (Kampala)
In its efforts to curb the abundance and abuse of small and light weapons, the government has launched a new policy on firearms and ammunition.
The policy calls for a new legal regime to oversee the acquisition, use and storage of firearms.
The policy was unveiled last week by the Uganda National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons, a department in the Ministry of Internal Affairs that was created in 2003 to handle cases of illicit small arms.
The policy... (GunPolicy.org)
Thailand,Malaysia,Indonesia,Kuwait,Qatar,Mexico,Peru,Venezuela,Colombia,Bolivia,Somalia,Nepal,Oman,Latvia,Mauritius,Guyana,Congo (DRC),Bosnia & Herzegovina,Saudi Arabia,Liberia,Kazakhstan,Singapore,Dominican Republic,Jordan,Trinidad & Tobago,United Arab Emirates,Guatemala,Honduras,Chile,Ecuador,Argentina,Zimbabwe,Zambia,Uganda,Tanzania,Senegal,Congo (ROC),Nigeria,Niger,Namibia,Morocco,Mauritania,Malawi,Côte d'Ivoire,Egypt,Burkina Faso,Brazil,Tunisia,Sri Lanka,Pakistan,Philippines,Yemen,United States,Italy,Germany,Israel,Austria,Russia,Africa,Americas,Asia,Europe,South Africa,Algeria,Angola,Botswana,Ghana,Guinea,Madagascar
Brazilian Gun Industry Seeks New Markets: Africa and Asia [PT]
27 January 2012
Publica (Brazil)
[Translated summary: With the support of the Ministries of Defence and Foreign Affairs, Brazilian gun manufacturers seek new markets in countries with a history of human rights violations: Tunisia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Philippines and Yemen. Brazil is among the six countries in the world with annual exports exceeding $ 100 million, according to recent research from Small Arms Survey. According to the Army, responsible for supervising and controlling exports from 2005 to... (GunPolicy.org)
Opposition Demands Stricter Gun Control in Wake of Uganda Shootings
24 January 2012
Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA - Opposition Forum for Democratic Change party has asked government to strengthen laws governing the safe and proper use of firearms.
The comments came a day after Santos Komakech, a police bodyguard attached to the Kampala Capital City Authority physical planning director, Mr George Agaba, allegedly shot dead one person and injured several others in Luzira when an eviction exercise turned bloody on Sunday morning.
'We demand that police institutes rules on... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Opposition Party Asks Govt to Strengthen Gun Laws after Shooting
24 January 2012
New Vision (Kampala)
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party has asked government to explain the Sunday shooting incident at Port Bell, Luzira that left two people dead and one injured.
During the eviction exercise by Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) officials, a guard to George Agaba, the authority's director of planning, went on a shooting spree when the exercise was met with resistance from the locals and shot dead two men and injured a woman in the arm.
Addressing journalists... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Disarmament Nears End - Army Seized 30,000 Guns in 10 Years
13 December 2011
Monitor (Kampala)
NAKAPIRIPIRIT — The army has finally pulled out of the disarmament exercise in Karamoja after 10 years of rigorously pursuing Karimojong warriors to surrender illegal guns.
According to a UPDF report, illegal guns flooded the region in 1979 when Idi Amin's regime was overthrown and soldiers abandoned a major weapons armoury.
The warriors looted the weapons which they later used to carry out cattle rustling and other forms of robbery. The army said the disarmament... (GunPolicy.org)
Thailand,Colombia,Russia,United States,Uganda,Rwanda,South Africa,United Arab Emirates,Belgium,Sudan,Somalia,Côte d'Ivoire,Liberia,Angola,Oceania,Europe,Asia,Americas,Africa,Congo (DRC)
Stopping the Trade in Death, Gun Trafficking, Smuggling - Opinion
6 December 2011
New York Times, Opinion
On a dark November morning in 2004, I woke up in my bungalow overlooking Lake Kivu, tense with anticipation. Our small United Nations team was about to undertake a surprise inspection of three airfields in eastern Congo, notorious for smuggling operations.
With the backing of U.N. peacekeeping forces and a U.N. Security Council mandate, we searched almost every incoming and outgoing aircraft that day. By evening, we had the evidence to link several aviation front... (GunPolicy.org)
Africa,Congo (DRC),Rwanda,Uganda,Burundi
Africa: Six Years On - The UN's International Small Arms Tracing Instrument
5 December 2011
Institute for Security Studies (Tshwane/Pretoria), Report
The ability to trace small arms and light weapons (SALW) is an important step toward transparency and preventing the illicit use of firearms in conflict and crime. December 8th 2011 marks the 6th year since the adoption of the International Tracing Instrument (ITI) by the United Nations General Assembly.
In adopting the ITI, although not legally binding, the UN Member States acknowledged that the instrument would enable them to identify and trace, in a timely and... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: Institute for Security Studies (Tshwane/Pretoria)
Ten-year Drive to Disarm Uganda Results in 900 Deaths, Mainly Civilians
8 November 2011
Monitor (Kampala)
At least 900 people, majority of them civilians have been killed in the north-eastern Karamoja region since the UPDF launched a disarmament exercise 10 years ago.
According to a report released this year by the UPDF, 623 civilians and 269 soldiers were killed either in crossfire or ambushes, which brought the army under the spotlight over alleged human rights abuses as they carried out disarmament.
The report also shows that 417 civilians and 289 soldiers were injured... (GunPolicy.org)
New Law to Control Possession of Firearms in Uganda
29 October 2011
New Vision (Kampala)
The government is drafting a Bill to control possession of firearms held by security agencies and civilians.The Firearms, Ammunitions and Related Materials Bill, seeks to harmonise all existing laws governing possession of guns, including the Firearms Act, 1970.
The Act only regulates ownership of firearms held by individuals, while those held by the police and security agencies are governed under separate laws.
Under the new licensing system, the Government will... (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)
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)
Kenya,Somalia,Libya,Ethiopia,Sudan,Uganda,Ukraine
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)
Kenya,Ethiopia,Uganda,Sudan,Somalia,East Africa
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)
Uganda to Reinforce Control of Small Arms Owned by Civilians
6 September 2011
New Vision (Kampala)
Uganda is in the process of reviewing the national action plan on the control of small arms and light weapons.
The plan will provide for the issuance of certificates of competence to holders of private arms.
Under the plan, the country will establish a firearms registry and establish the number and gender of persons with arms besides those under the custody of the security personnel.
The five-year plan covering 2011-2015 will restrict issuance of certificates of... (GunPolicy.org)
Policeman Arrested in Uganda for Allegedly Hiring Out Gun to Thugs
1 July 2011
New Vision (Kampala)
He was charged with maintaining law and order, but instead fanned insecurity. The Police yesterday paraded Corporal Nangai Abdalla, among several armed robbery suspects.
Nangai, the officer-in-charge of Kikooge Police post, Nakasongola district was arrested for allegedly hiring out a Police rifle to thugs, one of them a private in the UPDF to rob residents.
Deputy Police spokesperson Vincent Ssekate yesterday said Nangai was arrested near Masindi post, about a week... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Mulls Law Change to Include Politicians in Hidden Handgun Ban
21 June 2011
New Vision (Kampala)
The Government is to review the licensing of firearms to civilians in order to bar politicians from carrying guns to public places.
Internal affairs minister Hillary Onek said most leaders such as Members of Parliament, have continuously carried firearms in public places resulting in scenes of violence.
"I don't see the necessity of MPs carrying guns. It is a threat to the public. We have to review this policy," he said.
He made the remarks during the launch of the... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya,Sudan,Ethiopia,Somalia,East Africa,Uganda
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)
Ugandan MP, Accused Wife Murderer Legally Bought, Registered His Pistol
30 November 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
A city businessman has admitted selling a Star pistol to Arua municipality MP, Akbar Hussein Godi.
Geoffrey Kalyegira, who deals in hardware and construction materials, told Mukono High Court on Monday that he sold the gun at sh5m and transferred its ownership to Godi in September 2008.
Godi is a prime suspect in the murder of his wife, Rehema Caesar, who was shot dead at Lugojja village in Mukono district on December 4, 2008. Her body was dumped near Mpoma satellite... (GunPolicy.org)
Government Gave Guns to Uganda Politicians, Now Wants Them Disarmed
12 August 2010
Monitor (Kampala)
The Gulu Deputy Resident District Commissioner, Mr Milton Odong, has issued an order to have all politicians in the region disarmed following the return of peace.
Several politicians were given guns at the height of the Lord's Resistance Army war.
Mr Odong issued the directive on Tuesday in a letter addressed to the UPDF's 4 Division administration and copied to the Ministers of Defence, Internal Affairs, Security and that of Presidency.
"Now that there is total... (GunPolicy.org)
Time to Rethink Karamoja Gun Seizure Policy, Register Guns Instead
19 May 2010
Observer (Kampala), Editorial
President Museveni is a bit disturbed that the commanders that were deployed in Karamoja to disarm the gun-wielding warriors are failing to achieve their targets at the expense of lives and property.
The President is right to be upset, but he also needs to research on why the work has not run according to plan.
Part of the reason is that the ordinary people and the warriors alike can't trust the UPDF to provide them with security for their lives and property, against... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Destroys Another 250 Tonnes of Guns, Ammunition
12 May 2010
Monitor (Kampala)
LUWEERO/KAMPALA — The Army yesterday began destroying 250 tonnes of weapons in a one-week exercise that officials say will help rid the country of "unwanted war materials". Lt. Joram Kabagambire, the Air Defence spokesperson, said the weapons are landmines, assault rifles, bullets, and bombs captured from former rebels, Karimojong cattle rustlers and other criminals - plus expired stock in armory of security forces. "We destroyed some three tonnes which was basically... (GunPolicy.org)
Demand to Buy, Licence Guns in Uganda 'Increasing Rapidly' - Minister
11 May 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
The number of Ugandans applying for guns for personal protection is increasing rapidly, according to internal affairs minister Kirunda Kivejinja.
The minister on Monday said before 2006, the Government licenced an average of three guns in a year, but currently, his office has received about 1,000 applications.
"I have seen many young boys come to my office for guns but I have put them on hold. The number is growing very fast. There must be a reason for it," Kivejinja... (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)
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)
Politicians, Soldiers, Police Misuse Guns, Kill Ugandans in 'Bitter Harvest'
27 March 2010
Monitor (Kampala)
Within a week, four Ugandans have been shot dead by the very security agents mandated to protect them. It is the continuation of a trend that exposes the ugly side of Uganda's gun culture.
It is the kind of behaviour that compelled a senior minister to resign some 23 years ago, but not today. When, on October 15, 1987, then Internal Affairs Minister Kahinda Otafiire drew a pistol on the late Jennifer Kuteesa at a hotel in Kampala during an argument, he resigned soon... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Gun Trade in Uganda District Blamed on 'Smuggling from Sudan'
24 March 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — An unspecified number of guns suspected to be from Southern Sudan are being sold in Arua district, the resident district commissioner (RDC) has said.
Maj. Ibrahim Abiriga said security operatives had recovered 15 guns within the last two weeks.
"We realised that some guns were from Southern Sudan," he said.
The West Nile region Police spokesperson, Henry Alyang, confirmed recovering the guns but did not specify the number.
"It is still too early to say... (GunPolicy.org)
Guns Given to Militia Now Being used to 'Settle Land Disputes' in Uganda
11 March 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The UPDF has refuted claims by the Amuria district chairperson, Julius Ochen, that the Arrow Boys in Teso still have illegal arms.
The division army spokesperson, Capt. Henry Obbo, said the guns are from the former Uganda People's Army.
He said when the Arrow Boys were disbanded, district leaders were told to register them, including deserters, to receive payment.
"The local leaders assembled about 7,000 Boys and declared that was all, which figures... (GunPolicy.org)
Police Abandon 'Crude' AK-47 Assault Rifles for Pistols in Kampala
7 March 2010
Observer (Kampala)
Mean looking AK-47 toting Police constables will soon disappear from the streets as the force moves to introduce sidearm pistols, the universally accepted weapons in modern policing.
The Inspector General of Police, Maj. Gen. Kale Kayihura, told a press conference at the Police Headquarters in Kampala on Friday that the change of weapons was part of a broader plan to transform the Police from a force into a service.
"We should not be carrying assault rifles on the... (GunPolicy.org)
Peaceful Disarmament 'Failed,' Uganda Army Goes for Karimojong Guns
28 February 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA, Uganda — Karimojong warriors who do not voluntarily surrender their guns risk being court-martialled, the Government has warned.
Information minister Kabakumba Masiko said about 70 warriors who refused to surrender their guns had been tried in the Court Martial.
"The rustlers will be dealt with firmly and decisively and cattle rustling will be a thing of the past," she told a media briefing at the Kampala Media Centre in Kampala on Friday.
Kabakumba noted... (GunPolicy.org)
Kampala Police Mark 4,300 Firearms, Hope to Trace Cops Renting Guns
24 February 2010
Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA -- All firearms belonging to the police have been marked to curb the misuse of guns by security officers.
The Director of Police Operations, Mr Francis Rwego, said the exercise will bring to book police officers who have been engaging in armed robberies and hiring out guns to suspected criminals.
"There have been incidences in the past where some police officers were engaged in criminal acts like robbery. We shall now be able to know where the gun came from," Mr... (GunPolicy.org)
Soldier Shoots, Kills Wife, Then Himself in Kampala Domestic Dispute
22 February 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — A UPDF soldier has shot his wife dead and later shot himself dead.
The tragic incident occurred at around 6am this morning at Mbuya a Kampala suburb. Private James Agaba attached to Mbuya military headquarters shot his wife only identified as Deborah 6 times before turning the gun to himself.
Neighbours heard several bullets in the morning shortly after the soldier returned from his night... (GunPolicy.org)
66,000 Guns Destroyed in Uganda's 3-year Firearm Seizure Campaign
21 February 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Uganda National Focal Point (NFP) on small arms and light weapons has destroyed ammunition in an effort to combat the increase of small arms in the country.
Among those destroyed were 300 explosives, 800 grenade canisters, 38 boxes of gun powder, 15 boxes of propellant charges, 100 tear gas canisters, 4,000 small ammunitions and 1,500 artillery rounds, some dating back to 1963.
The arms were destroyed recently at Bukasa, Bweyogerere by the Police bomb... (GunPolicy.org)
Karamoja Elder Betrayed by Gun Amnesty, Uganda Army 'Cattle Rustlers'
21 February 2010
Monitor (Kampala)
He has dedicated his life to peace, worked closely with the UPDF to disarm his clansmen and once secured surrender of 200 illegal guns in a day. Today, Mzee Aramutori Lokodo is an angry elder, temporary confined by the government at a top Kampala Hotel, after soldiers allegedly grabbed all his 350 cattle last month. He spoke to Sunday Monitor's Tabu Butagira (through an interpreter) about how the army has become what he called a "cattle-rustling tribe" in Karamoja... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Army Commander Kills Wife, Self in 'Domestic Violence' Shooting
15 February 2010
Monitor (Kampala)
St. Valentine's Day, observed to celebrate love, ironically turned tragic in Kisoro District after a UPDF commander shot his wife dead before turning the gun on himself.
Lt. David Okumu, 45, the Busanza detach commander, allegedly became furious after his wife, Teddy Akuru, reportedly received a romantic short text message (SMS) on her mobile phone which he suspected was from another lover.
But the police and army remained guarded on whether it was a crime of passion.... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Estimates 1,077 Illegal Guns Still in Hands of Karimojong
8 February 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA -- About 1,077 guns are still in the hands of the Karimojong, the UPDF 3rd division commander, Brig. Patrick Kankiriho, has said.
He added that the army had collected 29,923â-‚guns in the last eight years of the disarmament exercise in Karamoja.
"Very soon we shall declare Karamoja free from illegal guns. Then we can embark on integrated development and total pacification of the sub-region," Kankiriho said.
He made the remarks at the launch of the Army... (GunPolicy.org)
Rash of Gun Robberies Prompts Uganda to Disarm Private Security Firms
3 February 2010
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Government is considering withdrawing fire arms from private security firms.
State minister for internal affairs Matia Kasaija says some officers from private security organisations have been implicated in using their guns to rob and kill innocent people.
Kasaija said private security companies will now have to use batons to carry out their... (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)
Uganda Claims to Have Seized 90% of Illegal Guns in Karamoja Region
17 October 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Over 90% (27,199) of the illegal weapons in Karamoja sub-region have been recovered since the inception of the ongoing disarmament exercise in 2001.
A statement issued after a five-day UPDF top leadership disarmament evaluation meeting in Moroto army barracks, said 10% (about 3,000) of the remaining Karimojong guns are buried underground in a bid to evade confiscation.
"Arms trafficking into Karamoja has not been registered for quite a while. Instead, due... (GunPolicy.org)
Government Must Do More to Seize, Destroy Illicit Guns in Uganda
7 October 2009
Monitor (Kampala), Editorial
President Yoweri Museveni on Monday torched a huge pyre of 3,500 illegal guns at the opening of the East African Peace and Security conference at Speke Resort Munyonyo.
This is not the first time that thousands of such small firearms are being destroyed. In 2006, a total of 57,000 guns and small arms were smelted at the Steel Rolling Mills in Jinja. Only a year earlier, the government had destroyed 3,000 guns at Nsambya Primary School grounds in Kampala. All these are... (GunPolicy.org)
After Decade of Forced Disarmament, Illegal Guns Still Haunt Karamoja
5 September 2009
Monitor (Kampala)
Nearly a decade ago the government launched a disarmament programme to rid Karamoja of illegal guns that at the time were largely responsible for the mayhem in the region.
At the inception of the exercise in 2001, illegal guns circulating in Karamoja were estimated at 80,000 by the civil society organisations operating in the region
The government has since contested the figure of 80,000 saying the number was much less than it had been portrayed by the civil society... (GunPolicy.org)
To Aid Crime Gun Tracing, Uganda Re-brands Government Firearms
28 July 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
All guns in the hands of security agencies will be marked in a bid to check the proliferation of illegal arms. The marks will include the logos of the country, the manufacturer and the emblem of the security agency to which the weapon belongs, Nickson Olwa, the operations and research officer of the national focal point (NFP) on small arms and light weapons, said.
"This will ease monitoring of the movement of arms. Even if they are trafficked to another country, they... (GunPolicy.org)
Sudanese Army Captain Sprays Ugandan Casino with Handgun Bullets
19 July 2009
Monitor (Kampala), Editorial
The incident in which a Sudan Peoples' Liberation Army Captain John Kwoch fired live bullets at Simba Casino revellers on Wednesday morning once again highlights how government's cavalier attitude towards firearms can be perilous to our nation.
First, why was a foreign national carrying a loaded pistol to a Casino? There is nowhere else in the world that a foreign soldier can be allowed into a Casino or any other public place with a weapon. Investigations must be... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Security Guards, Police, Soldiers Rent Guns for Armed Crime
11 July 2009
Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — With cotton wool in both his ears and one of his eyes covered with a plaster, Mr Jim Twebaze, 25, is fighting for his life. The clinic bed has become his home for a month now.
"Pain is all over my body. My right eye can't see and blood is oozing from my ears. I fear that I may lose my hearing ability," Mr Twebaze said. He has also undergone a surgery in his abdomen. Mr Twebaze's injuries and suffering was inflicted upon him by the people who were employed... (GunPolicy.org)
US Dept of State Pays Ugandan Army to Funnel Guns, Ammo to Somalia
8 July 2009
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Ugandan troops in Mogadishu have been secretly selling guns and ammunition to Somalia's struggling Transitional Federal Government on behalf of the United States government, Daily Monitor can reveal.
Explaining American assistance to the TFG during a recent press briefing to US journalists in Washington, D.C., a top US State Department official said Uganda has been supplying arms to Somali troops and picking dollars from Washington.
"We have gone to the... (GunPolicy.org)
Soldiers Kill 80 Warriors in Drive to Seize 622 Illegal Guns in Uganda
21 June 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The UPDF has killed 80 warriors and recovered 622 guns with 4,295 bullets in the last six months in Karamoja.
The 3rd Division spokesperson, Capt. Henry Obbo, on Thursday said: "UPDF has killed warriors who do not respond to our orders when we go for cordon and search operations in the villages."
Obbo added that the army also killed warriors in ambushes and during raids.
"We killed 22 warriors in the last three weeks. This has been the biggest number in... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Gun Trade Threatens Uganda's Economy, Says Police Chief
19 June 2009
Uganda Pulse, Web page
The Inspector General of Police, Maj. Gen. Kale Kayihura has said the proliferation in small arms is the leading cause of economic collapse in most African countries.
Kayihura says access to small arms in African societies is one of the causes of civil unrest in Africa which in turns affects economic activities.
Maj. Gen. Kayihura says the political unrest in Somalia and DR Congo among other African countries is a result of proliferation of fire arms.
He says the... (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)
Mogadishu Gun Market Prices Fall, Smuggled Ammunition 'Plentiful'
9 June 2009
Reuters
In Mogadishu, prices of guns and ammunition have fallen in recent months due to plentiful supplies from Eritrea and Uganda and the weapons Ethiopian troops left behind when they withdrew, arms dealers say.
Here is a price list for some popular weapons:
Mortars
120 mm - $700 ($55 per mortar bomb)
82 mm - $300 ($25 per bomb)
60 mm - $200 ($18 per bomb)
Anti-aircraft guns (truck mounted)
23 mm - $20,000 ($2.50 per round)
37 mm version also available, but there is... (GunPolicy.org)
Accused Political Killer Signed for AK-47, Ammo at Kampala Police Station
28 May 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
Ramathan Magara, the man accused of killing two people when he fired into a crowd in 2006, signed for the gun from the Police armoury, a State witness has said.
John Mande, the officer in-charge of the Old Kampala Police Station at the time, said Magara signed for an AK47 rifle and 30 bullets.
He added that the gun had not been returned since January 2006.
Mande explained that Magara, an officer at the station at the time, signed for the gun meant to guard Fred... (GunPolicy.org)
Wives Urged to Praise Husband, Mention Gun Control When Making Love
26 May 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Women in Teso region have been urged to put pressure on their husbands who posses illegal guns to surrender them to the army.
"When you are making love, do not just stop at praising your husbands. You should also talk to them about the dangers of possessing guns illegaly," urged Capt. Jeff Okwii Emojong, the commander of Operation Restore Hope in Teso.
The operation is a UPDF special force deployed in Teso to recover illegal guns. He said there were over... (GunPolicy.org)
Kampala Promises to Limit Use of Guns Newly Issued to Uganda Police
26 May 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Kampala City Council (KCC) has put in place measures to regulate access to firearms by its law enforcement officers.
"Not every law enforcement officer will have access to the firearms. They will be limited to a special squad of between 25 to 40 officers and only when going for risky operations like demolishing buildings," a source at City Hall said.
Earlier this month, KCC unveiled plans to arm its law enforcement officers to improve service delivery in... (GunPolicy.org)
Too Many Guns in Too Many Hands: Uganda Should Ban Assault Rifles
6 May 2009
Weekly Observer (Kampala), Editorial
Government needs to re-examine its policy on gun ownership with a view to withdrawing assault weapons from the public. There are simply too many guns in too many hands. Most MPs have them, political assistants, and even drivers of VIPs, carry guns too!
Thousands of security agents carry guns even to entertainment places and many of them have misused the weapons, some to settle personal scores, others to show off. A case in point is the recent mayhem that was caused by... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Guns Among Civilians, Rising Gun Crime Worry Ugandan Officials
26 April 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The resident district commissioner of Buliisa, Florence Beyunga, has expressed concern over the rampant illegal acquisition of firearms in the district.
She said the guns could fuel ethnic clashes between the indigenous Bagungu and immigrant pastoralists. Addressing officials from the Ministry of Internal Affairs at Buliisa community hall on Wednesday, Beyunga said: "Many people have acquired illegal guns in this area and this is worrying us."
She blamed... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Amnesty Nets 36 Firearms, Ammunition in Ugandan Province
26 February 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Police in Amuria district have recovered 36 guns and 952 rounds of ammunition in the last six months.
The district Police commander, Patrick Karamura, said on Tuesday that the guns were voluntarily handed in with the support of the Amnesty Commission.
"For the six months I have been here, the district and church leaders have helped us to recover the guns," Karamura told journalists in his office.
He said most guns were acquired during the insurgency... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandans 'Jolted' to Find Police Have No Idea How Many Guns Are Out There
21 February 2009
Sunday Vision (Kampala)
The Government does not know the number of firearms in circulation in the country, the state minister for internal affairs, Matia Kasaija, told delegates at a small arms workshop in Kampala on Friday.
The disclosure jolted some of the delegates who questioned what was being done to address the issue. The workshop was aimed at exploring ways of speeding up the implementation of the Nairobi Protocol on small arms and light weapons.
Opening the workshop at Hotel... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Confiscates 2,433 Guns, 179 Killed in Disarmament Drive
28 January 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — A total of 166 Karimojong warriors and 13 UPDF soldiers lost their lives during the disarmament exercise in the Karamoja sub-region last year.
According to the UPDF 3rd Division annual report, the cordon-and-search operation recovered 2,430 sub-machine guns, 36 hand grenades, three pistols and 11,630 rounds of ammunition.
Speaking to The New Vision, the division spokesman, Lt. Caesar Olweny, said 146 warriors were convicted by the division court martial... (GunPolicy.org)
Ban Guns, Prevent Husbands Slaughtering Wives in Uganda - Archbishop
6 January 2009
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Government has been urged to disarm civilians to curb the increasing cases of homicide.
The Archbishop of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Pr. John Wani, condemned the rampant murder cases of spouses, saying Police should augment its investigations so that culprits do not go free.
"Many Ugandans have proved to be blind to the gospel we preach. Husbands are slaughtering their wives," he lamented.
The Police recently reported that over 86 Ugandans were... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Begins to Mark All Military Guns, Ammunition for Later Tracing
10 December 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
Small arms, light weapons and ammunition given to armed forces and civilians will be marked and electronically registered.
Lt. Col. Fred Karara, the UPDF deputy inspector general of military equipment, said: "We are going to create a central database for all small arms, light weapons and ammunition in Uganda. We have received equipment from the Nairobi Regional Centre for Small Arms and Light Weapons to carry out the exercise."
Karara is also the deputy manager of... (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)
Army Warns 'Innocent People Must Not be Hurt' in Uganda Gun Seizure
3 December 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) has issued new guidelines for the disarmament exercise to check social unrest.
Since 2001, the army has concentrated on recovering illegal firearms acquired during the different regimes.
The army has to date recovered about 27,000 guns.
The two-page document has been circulated to all military personnel of the division tasked with the disarmament.
"Bearing in mind that these guns will not be handed to us... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Claims to Have Disarmed 80% of Karimojong Pastoralists
30 October 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The government has disarmed 80% of the warriors in Karamoja sub-region, a senior security official has said.
Olandason Wanyama reports that speaking at the closure of a two-day National Agriculture Advisory Services (NAADS) review workshop recently, the regional internal security officer, Emmy Twagira, said the region was now more peaceful.
"Compared to what people used to read and hear about Karamoja, the situation is not bad today," he said, adding that... (GunPolicy.org)
Proliferation of Guns in South Sudan Threatens West Nile, Uganda
13 October 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
Illicit acquisition and open sale of small arms in South Sudan capital Juba poses a threat to security in the West Nile districts, the Arua Municipality MP has said
Mr Akbar Godi said today the trade could lead to formation of armed groups who could attack the West Nile districts at will. "I was in Juba three months ago and discovered that guns like pistols are sold in open markets in Sudan," Mr Godi said. "If we don't check out this, our people will fall victim to... (GunPolicy.org)
Arming Traffic Police in Uganda is a 'Little on the Extreme'
7 October 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
The Uganda Police leadership is never short of surprises. This time round, they want to arm the traffic police with automatic rifles to defend themselves against violent motorists. Whereas the traffic police have a right under the Constitution and the Police Act to defend themselves against violent criminals, employing guns is a little on the extreme.
The Inspector General of Police Kale Kayihura, though a military man, is said to be a supporter of democratic policing... (GunPolicy.org)
Plan to Give Guns to Traffic Police 'Absurd' - Militarism Plagues Uganda
1 October 2008
Weekly Observer (Kampala), Editorial
That government is planning to give guns to Traffic Police officers is absurd. It is equally odd that government is planning to deploy Military Police officers on the roads to control traffic.
The government says this is because motorists often beat up unarmed officers on duty when they try to arrest or stop them from breaking the traffic rules.
The NRM government has a conflicting approach to gun culture. On the one hand, it is disarming Karimojong warriors who have... (GunPolicy.org)
Terrorising Motorists with Assault Rifles: Absurd Gun Culture in Uganda
27 September 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala), Editorial
Time is now for all Ugandans of sound mind and goodwill to stop glorifying the gun culture in our country. The police leadership appears to be obsessed with militarism and a willy-nilly attitude towards solving all crime related issues no matter how petty they may be.
The media has been awash with the news that the police intends to arm its traffic section to counter errant motorists and to emulate other countries like Indonesia, Thailand and the USA. Comparing Uganda... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Traffic Cops 'Brutalised by Drivers' Now Carry Handguns, AK-47s
23 September 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
The Police Force has started arming senior traffic personnel following violent attacks on them in the line of duty by unruly motorists.
Lower cadre personnel, including Police Constables deployed to regulate traffic flow will later on also start wielding guns under the drastic administrative reforms intended to bolster their safety.
Maj. Gen. Kale Kayihura, the inspector general of police, said the officers were routinely being brutalised by errant drivers and... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,East Africa,United Kingdom,United Nations
Britain Urges UN Members to Urgently Endorse Global Gun Trade Treaty
10 September 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The UK government is rallying the 192 UN-member countries to urgently endorse the draft resolution on global Arms Trade Treaty to streamline international sale of guns, which protagonists claim will choke supply of deadly weapons to terrorists and dictators.
Mr David Miliband, the British Foreign Secretary, says the unregulated marketing of military hardware has inflamed devastating civil wars, mainly in poor countries, and emboldened repressive regimes to... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Guns Key to Karamoja Insecurity, Disarmament Falters in Uganda
31 August 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The availability of firearms in Karamoja, a region in north eastern Uganda has exacerbated insecurity and more people are being killed in ambushes and livestock raids.
Despite the Government's efforts to disarm the Karimojong, recent reports indicate that the region has more firearms than anticipated. The Government has so far recovered 25,000 guns but a recent report by Small Arms Survey; a regional body that researches on armed pastoral areas, indicates... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,East Africa,Central Africa
African Great Lakes Nations Brand State Guns to Detect Theft, Diversion
18 August 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Countries in the Great Lakes region have been given up to December 30 to brand all light and small weapons in their possession as a means of checking on soaring proliferation of illegal guns.
The Executive Director of the Regional Center for Small Arms-Nairobi Chapter, Dr Francis Sang, who was yesterday addressing a three-day conference on small arms and light weapons in Kampala, urged regional member states to observe the deadline.
"We expect all member... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda,East Africa,Central Africa
Uganda, African Neighbours Given Ultimatum to Brand All State Guns
18 August 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
Uganda and other countries in the Great Lakes region have up to December 30 to brand the firearms under State control.
Dr. Francis Sang, the executive secretary of the Regional Centre on Small Arms and Light Weapons, yesterday announced the ultimatum in Kampala.
"All the firearms under state control should be taken care of to avoid misuse. That is why we have set December 30 this year as the deadline for all member states to brand their weapons," he said.
The... (GunPolicy.org)
27,000 Guns Seized, Some Destroyed, Cost of Weapons Soars in Uganda
25 July 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
A total of 27,000 have been collected from Karamoja since the disarmament exercise started in 2001, the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Internal Affairs, heard on Tuesday.
The State Minister for Defence, Ms Ruth Nankabirwa, explained the recovery programme to the committee from the year 2001 to present.
She said the security threat in the region has substantially been reduced since much of the gadgets were already destroyed.
"The impromptu attacks into the... (GunPolicy.org)
Too Many Guns Threaten Displaced Civilians, Say Ugandan Officials
10 July 2008
IRIN (UN News)
GULU, Uganda — Northern Uganda has enjoyed relative peace following years of clashes between government troops and rebels, but the prevalence of illegal weapons across the region poses a new challenge to displaced civilians returning to their villages, officials said.
"The region has seen a great deal of violence and so many guns are still on the loose," Phenihensas Arinaitwe, the regional police commander, said. "Some rogue elements are robbing IDPs [internally... (GunPolicy.org)
Most Gunshot Victims Shot by Lawful Gun Owners, Says Ugandan Group
7 June 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Uganda Action Network on small arms and light weapons has urged the Government to control the rampant misuse of firearms that has left many wounded and maimed.
"Majority of the victims with gunshot wounds are inflicted by official guns," said Rev. Canon Joyce Nima, the organisation co-ordinator.
Nima, who led the press, the clergy and a team from her organisation, on Thursday visited some victims admitted at Mulago hospital after sustaining bullet... (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)
Army Seizes Another 31 Guns from Uganda's Karamojong Warriors
30 April 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Two Karimojong warriors were killed in an operation in which the UPDF recovered 31 guns on Monday.
The 3rd Division spokesperson, Capt. Henry Obbo, said the guns were found in Rupa sub-county in Moroto, Lokopo and Lolalachat sub-counties in Nakapiripirit district.
Others were found in Nakapelimoru and Panyangara sub-counties in Kotido district, Obbo said. He added that 50 warriors were being detained at the 405 Brigade detachment in Kotido.
A warrior,... (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)
Ugandan Student Gets 9yrs Jail for Illegal Possession of Submachine Guns
14 April 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Julius Nyago, a 20-year-old student of Dodoth College in Kotido district, has been sentenced to nine years in prison for illegal possession of guns.
The 3rd Division Court Martial chaired by Col. John Baptist Mulindwa convicted Nyago on Friday.
The court heard that he was arrested from school on January 17 with two sub-machine guns and 120 bullets that were concealed in a suitcase.
The court also sentenced Simon Chepkurei to six months in prison for... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Denies Selling Guns to Karamojong Pastoralists, Rebels
6 April 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The army has refuted reports that soldiers were selling guns and bullets to Karimojong warriors. The 3rd Division commander, Brig. Patrick Kankiriho, said they had set up an armoury committee headed by the division operations and training officer, Col. Paul L'Okech, to ensure there was no misuse of weapons.
"We keep record of the guns in the hands of our soldiers whenever they go out for the cordon-and-search operations. Whoever loses ammunition is... (GunPolicy.org)
Corrupt Ugandan Army Officers Selling Guns to Rebels, Trading Stolen Cattle
28 March 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Kaabong District, RDC Geoffrey Kiwanda yesterday alleged that some UPDF soldiers are selling guns and ammunition to the Karimojong.
Flanked by the Dodoth County MP, Fr Simon Lodou, Mr Kiwanda told journalists at Parliament that the UPDF is not only selling impounded cattle but also guns and ammunition.
"Whenever we track these guns from Karimojong during the disarmament operations, we recover our very own guns which the UPDF soldiers sell to them but we... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda: Gun Running, Armed Violence Could Harm Northern Peace Deal
28 March 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA/GULU — As northern Uganda prepares for a post-war recovery programme that will see thousands of displaced people resume a normal life, arms trafficking is becoming a serious security concern among the stakeholders.
Security and local leaders fear that the problem of illegal guns and weapons said to be in the hands of former LRA combatants, Karimojong warriors, army deserters, robbers, arms traffickers from Southern Sudan, Somalia and DR Congo could seriously... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Seizes Guns, Aims to Curb Illegal Arms Trade, Smuggling
26 March 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
There are clandestine markets dealing in small arms and light weapons along Uganda's borders, the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Aronda Nyakairima, has said.
Nyakairima said the weapons were being used in criminal activities against both civilians and security agents.
"We are aware that there are some well established markets that sell small arms and light weapons along Uganda's borders and trading routes. All these help to sustain the trafficking of illicit arms,"... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Cancels Karamojong Gun Amnesty, Will Jail Firearm Owners
25 March 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
MOROTO — The army will not grant any more amnesty to Karimojong warriors arrested with guns. According to the division commander, Brig. Patrick Kankiriho, any Karimojong warrior arrested with an illegal gun shall be court martialled immediately and sentenced to imprisonment.
Under the UPDF amnesty — any Karimojong warrior who voluntarily hands over a gun or is arrested with a gun during cordon and search operation, is to be set free after handing over the gun.
... (GunPolicy.org)
Former Rebels Told to Surrender Illegal Guns Hidden in West Nile Region
16 March 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The army has called on former combatants in the West Nile region to surrender military weapons in their possession.
Capt. Robert Kamara, the regional UPDF spokesman, said they had evidence that former soldiers had guns hidden in discreet arms banks.
"There were various rebel groups that signed peace agreements with the Government and declared their arms. But we believe that some of them did not have the opportunity to surrender them. It is time to do so,"... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Military Seize 'Massive Cache' of Illegal Guns in West Nile Region
15 March 2008
Sunday Vision (Kampala)
A massive cache of illegal arms has been seized by security agencies in the West Nile region, in the past fortnight.
With the accumulation of illegal arms in the West Nile, following the 20-year-old LRA war and other armed conflicts in the neighbouring region's neighbouring countries, the security agencies swung into action early this month, to halt it.
The operation by security and intelligence services and local people, followed an arrest of a suspected arms... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Generals Linked to 'Merchant of Death' Gun Runner Bout
10 March 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Mr Viktor Bout, the world's most notorious illegal arms baron who was arrested in Thailand at the weekend, sold arms to Uganda and illegally used Entebbe International Airport to ship arms to DR Congo and Liberia.
Former Russian KGB officer Bout — nicknamed the "Merchant of Death" — is believed to have supplied weapons to dozens of rebel groups the world over, including the Taliban and al-Qaeda-linked groups.
A report by the Belgian International... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Continues Drive to Disarm Karamoja Herders, 91 More Guns Seized
9 March 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The UPDF has recovered 91 guns in the first six days of March in the on-going operation to recover illegally owned firearms in Karamoja sub-region.
In a telephone interview with The New Vision, the spokesman of the 3rd Division, Captain Henry Obbo said 18 of the guns were recovered after the infantry supported by a reconnaissance helicopter raided Morungole mountains in Kaabong District.
Obbo said one warrior was killed in an exchange of fire that lasted... (GunPolicy.org)
'Shoot First' Law Gives Texans Unprecedented Right to Kill Suspects
21 February 2008
ABC News (USA)
In Texas, more than ever before, burglars and thieves are on notice.
From a quiet street in an upscale neighborhood outside Houston to a junk-strewn yard on the other side of the tracks, some Texans are shooting first and asking questions later.
In the Lone Star state, where the six-gun tamed the frontier, shooting bad guys is a time-honored tradition. But a new state law, based on the old idea that "a man's home is his castle," gives Texans unprecedented legal... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda, Kenya, Sudan in Talks Over Arms Trafficking in Karamoja Region
15 January 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
Security chiefs from the governments of Uganda and South Sudan have started discussions to end the long persistent arms trafficking in the region.
According to the UPDF, the strategy is aimed at reducing gun flow in to Karamoja region and to ensure that the UPDF disarmament exercise achieves the 100 per cent result for peace in Karamoja.
The UPDF and local leaders in Karamoja region have on several occasions hinted that the greatest undoing to the disarmament... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Military Announce Arrest of Gun Runner Sought for Past 5 Years
13 January 2008
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KARAMOJA — The UPDF's special intelligence squad against arms trafficking in Karamoja region have arrested a leading arms trafficker in Uganda and Kenya.
Livingstone Musoba, a Kenyan from Kipsongo, Kitale village whom both the Ugandan and Kenyan authorities have been hunting for five years was arrested on Tuesday in Uganda.
Information reaching Sunday Monitor indicates that Simon Cheprikei from Serendeti in Bukwo, who was Musoba's accomplice was also arrested. The... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Warns Refugees Not to Buy Guns Smuggled in from Sudan
3 January 2008
New Vision (Kampala)
The army has warned the internally displaced persons (IDPs) living on the border of southern Sudan and Karamoja, currently returning to their homes, against the buying and selling of military hardware.
There has been an influx of guns and other military hardware from southern Sudan and Karamoja into some parts of Acholi sub-region. This is especially so along the border in Agoro and Orom sub-counties in Kitgum district.
The UPDF 5th Division public relations... (GunPolicy.org)
Disarmament Crisis Over Rising Gun Trade in Uganda's Karamoja Region
31 December 2007
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
The Government's hopes to get rid of illicit arms in the volatile Karamoja region have suffered a setback following new reports of serious re-armament that is threatening to outstrip disarmament efforts.
The failure has been attributed to increased gun trafficking in the area, a profitable business involving even some of the local leaders who bribe authorities to smuggle guns from neghbouring districts.
Citing a recent incident, a source told Sunday Monitor that on... (GunPolicy.org)
UN Gun Destruction Scheme Contributes to Human Rights Abuse in Uganda
20 December 2007
America's 1st Freedom, Jan 2008 / National Rifle Association of America, Opinion
While the United Nations works diligently to curb the Second Amendment rights of Americans, it is turning a blind eye to abused Karamojong tribesmen fighting a brutal government to keep their only means of self-defense.
International gun prohibition groups are working hard and successfully to push an Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) through the United Nations. They claim that the reason the treaty is needed is that arms are often used to violate human rights.
True enough. One... (GunPolicy.org)
Read More: America's 1st Freedom, Jan 2008 / National Rifle Association of America
Guns, Cattle Rustling Open Door to Wives and Wealth in Kenya, Uganda
16 December 2007
East African (Nairobi)
At only 34 years old, Lesekori Lemui is already a father of 19 from four wives. His eldest offspring is a 17-year old son.
What prompted him to start having children so early? At the tender age of 14, he was the proud owner of 20 heads of cattle, including 12 bulls acquired through cattle rustling. Two years later, that figure had grown sixfold.
Owning such a big herd, in Lemui's community, the Pokot, is affluence in itself. Custom demands that he share the vast... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Police 'Untrained,' Carry AK-47s, Commit Human Rights Abuses
19 November 2007
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
The 1,000-plus men and women wearing the monogrammed uniform and totting Kalashnikov assault rifles on Kampala's streets received inadequate training. They may not only be ill-equipped to protect human rights, but may also commit human rights abuses
Against a backdrop of public anxiety, and anger in some instances, about the latest addition to the security forces, it has emerged that key observations about how the Special Police Constables (SPCs) should have been... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Military Explodes Tonnes of Old Munitions with UN, US Help
8 November 2007
ReliefWeb, Media release
KINSHASA, Uganda — UNV volunteers have helped the Uganda Peoples' Defence Forces to blow up more than 460 tonnes of decommissioned, redundant and obsolete ammunition and ordinances.
The event was the largest of its kind in the country and comprised an assortment of bombs, rockets, grenades, shells and bullets that were destroyed in a series of massive explosions of 10-15 tonnes of material at a time.
UNV helped organise a public event to mark the activity and... (GunPolicy.org)
Civilians Own Two Thirds of Uganda's Firearms: Gun Control Campaigners
4 November 2007
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Civilians carry 65 per cent of the fire arms in Uganda, a senior official of the Uganda Joint Christian Council has said.
Canon Joyce Nima made the remarks last week while delivering a paper at a seminar on small arms in Kampala.
"Among those with arms are the militias yet they are not supposed to have guns at all because they are civilians," she said. The seminar, that mainly targeted media practitioners, was organised by the East African Community (EAC)... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Activists Call for Tougher, Harmonised East African Gun Laws
30 October 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Stringent laws are needed to address the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the East African region, activists have advised.
"We have designed a draft proposal that will see a new firearms Act coming into force soon," said Richard Mugisha, the chairperson of Uganda Action Network on Small Arms.
Addressing editors at a workshop at Hotel Equatoria in Kampala recently, Mugisha called for the harmonisation of laws in order to curb the... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Security Guard Kills His 2 Children, Self With Work Shotgun
25 September 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — It passes for a Hollywood horror movie in which a man picks a gun, shoots his two children and turns the gun on himself. But the morning incident in which a guard shot dead his two children before ending his own life yesterday was far from a movie.
Robert Ojala, attached to Alert Guards, a private security firm based in kampala, grabbed his pump-action gun and shot his two children in Kakajjo II Zone Kisenyi, a city slum.
The children, only identified as... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Traffic Police Should Carry Guns Against Motorist Attacks - Chief
19 September 2007
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
MASINDI, Kampala — If Police chief Kale Kayihura gets his way, traffic police officers will soon carry guns while on duty to protect themselves against what he calls "attacks from errant motor drivers."
Speaking in Masindi District at the pass out of 1,073 Special Police Constables (SPCs), the inspector general of police said keeping unarmed traffic officers on the road for long hours puts them at risk of being attacked by unruly people.
"Traffic officers should be... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Soldiers Supply Ammunition to Karamojong Warriors - Report
31 August 2007
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Ugandan regular and auxiliary forces are a source of ammunition for the Karimojong, according to the Small Arms Survey 2007 released on Wednesday.
Karamoja has the highest proliferation of small arms in the country and currently the army is in the sub region carrying out a disarmament exercise.
Chapter 9 of this year's Small Arms Survey was designed to compare the stocks of ammunition in the hands of various state and non-state groups in... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda's Speaker Warns MPs Not to Carry Guns in Parliament Building
30 August 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Speaker of Parliament, Edward Ssekandi, has warned MPs against carrying guns to Parliament, saying it is contrary to the procedures.
"This practice should stop whether you have a licence or not," he stressed.
According to the procedures, all firearms must be deposited at the armouries at the entries.
Ssekandi was yesterday responding to Patrick Amuriat's (Kumi county) complaint that some members of the Presidential Guard Brigade (PGB) at Parliament... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Restricts Gun Imports by Private Security Firms Following Leakage
29 August 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Government has restricted the import of firearms by private security organisations in a bid to control the number of guns brought into the country.
Maj. Gen. Kale Kayihura, the Inspector General of Police, said some of the guns that were imported were sold to private citizens.
"From around 1996, it became a fashion for some wealthy people to own pistols. If you did not possess one, you were seen as someone out of fashion," Kayihura noted in a speech... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Govt Destroys 34,000 Rounds of Ammunition Dug Up at Brickworks
25 July 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
About 34,040 bullets were burnt at Kigo Prison yesterday. A team of explosive experts, led by the Anti-Terrorism Unit assistant commissioner of Police, Abas Byakagaba, constructed the six incinerators that were used to destroy the ammunition.
The bullets were discovered in September 2006 by a 72-year-old brickmaker, Falasiko Ssentumbwe, the Kakola LC1 defence secretary and his assistant only identified as Mutoro in Kakola village, Mpigi town council.
Ssentumbwe... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Destroys 450 Guns Seized from Karamojong Pastoralists
3 July 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
The Uganda People's Defence Forces on Monday destroyed 452 guns recovered from Karimojong warriors during the disarmament exercise in the region.
The function was presided over by Dr Crispus Kiyonga, the defence minister, at Kotido Court Hall.
The guns included 355 SFG rifles, 61 self-automatic rifles, nine G3s, 19 NATOs, three Mark Four's and three LMGs.
Col. Patrick Kankiriho, the 3rd Division commander, said they recovered the guns from the warriors since... (GunPolicy.org)
Church Campaign Pushes Gun Amnesty, Destruction of Firearms in Uganda
28 June 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Justice Peace and Human Rights Commission of Arua Diocese has launched a six-month project to fight the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the district.
The project officer, David Okello, said the programme funded by the German Technical Services, would encourage the voluntary return of illicit arms through awareness campaigns.
He said they would also advocate for the proper use of arms held by legitimate government forces.
Okello... (GunPolicy.org)
Govt Disarmament of Karamoja Sees AK47 Prices Soar in Uganda
4 June 2007
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
MOROTO/KAMPALA — The world's cheapest but most effective gun, the Russian designed AK47 assault rifle that sold for less than Shs200,000 five months ago, now goes for Shs800,000 to Shs1 million on the black market in Kampala and Karamoja. A bullet for the AK47, which previously went for Shs300, now goes for Shs1,500.
The army says the gun rackets are doing brisk business at Uganda's border points with Sudan and Kenya. "We have information that a gun costs between... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Warns of Increased Gun Trafficking Across East Africa
19 April 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The army has expressed concern about the high rate of small arms trafficking as the northern insurgency ends.
"There is going to be high rate of small arms trafficking after this war because we do not know how many guns are in the hands of the LRA and how many they shall hand over to the Government when the Juba peace talks succeed," Brig. George Etyang, the UPDF 4th Division commander, said.
He was presenting a paper at a workshop organised by a group,... (GunPolicy.org)
Church Could Compel Illegal Gun Owners to Surrender Weapons in Uganda
6 April 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — An arms expert has suggested that the Church be involved in the disarmament exercise if it is to succeed.
Richard Mugisha of Uganda Action Network on Small Arms, Friday noted that the Church commands respect and confidence of the people, and if involved, it could compel owners of illegal arms to surrender them peacefully.
He also attributed the continuing penetration of illegal arms into Uganda to lack of comprehensive laws.
Mugisha said people get guns... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan MPs Demand Govt Explain AK-47s Used in Eviction by 'Civilians'
2 April 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Parliament yesterday asked the ministry of Internal Affairs to explain the rise of the number of guns in civilian hands.
The debate was sparked off by Kasilo MP Elijah Okupa who complained that men in civilian clothes armed with AK47 guns executed the operation in which squatters on Makerere University land in Katanga near Wandegeya were evicted.
"I am concerned with the number of arms in civilian arms. It means I can also be attacked and evicted by armed... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Urges NGOs to Help Curb Gun Proliferation in Karamoja
28 March 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
Civil society organisations have been urged to support the control of illicit small arms that have been in circulation as a result of the war by the Lord's Resistance Army rebels.
The Lira deputy resident district commissioner, Godfrey Alima, said this at a workshop organised by the Uganda Action Network on Small Arms in Lira on Saturday.
"The intervention of different personalities to encourage people to return their guns would help in security of the people who... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Troops in Somalia Tackle Gun Running to Karamoja Pastoralists
23 March 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
The deployment of Ugandan troops in Somalia is a good strategy to check the smuggling of guns into Karamoja, according to Dickson Olwa of the National Focal Point.
During a media dialogue on small arms and light weapons at the Hotel Equatorial in Kampala on Thursday, he said: "The Uganda People's Defence Forces' participation in Somalia is in the right direction, we need to tackle the source of the small weapons into Karamoja."
The National Focal Point coordinates... (GunPolicy.org)
An AK-47 Now Costs Only 2 Cows on Uganda, Sudan, Kenya Borders
19 March 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
The trafficking in small arms along the Uganda, Sudan and Kenya borders is thriving to the extent that the cost of an AK-47 assault rifle has dropped from 10 cows in 1986 to two cows today.
On the Uganda-Sudan border, an AK-47 rifle goes for sh100,000, a pistol for sh50,000 and a bullet for a mere sh200. Inside Sudan, an AK-47 rifle goes for a few chickens.
No East African country has as yet submitted a proposal to the UN Secretary General to check the supply of... (GunPolicy.org)
Cooperation Needed Among East African Nations to Curb Illegal Gun Trade
19 March 2007
New Vision (Kampala), Editorial
KAMPALA — Are they 200,000 or 400,000? The number of small arms in circulation in Uganda might be debatable. What is not debatable, however, is that the proliferation of small arms in the hands of unauthorised people is a huge problem in Uganda and the whole region.
Security sources cite the number of illegal arms in Karamoja at 40,000. That alone is a major threat. Weapons continue to flow in from South Sudan, Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo, turning... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Arms Body Clarifies Illegal Gun Number Estimates
19 March 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
The Uganda National Focal Point on Small Arms yesterday refuted reports that put the number of small arms in the hands of the LRA at 150,000.
The UN agency IRIN on Friday quoted its coordinator, Richard Nabudere, as saying that there were 400,000 small arms in Uganda, 150,000 of which were in the hands of the LRA.
"No count has been made to ascertain the number of small arms in the hands of the LRA or any other rebel group," Nabudere clarified. "What I stated was... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda Destroy Seized Guns, Numbers Called 'Paltry'
18 March 2007
Sunday Times (Kenya), Opinion
The Government this week destroyed thousands of illegal firearms and light weapons and immediately announced that it was drafting stringent laws that would address the problem of proliferation of small arms and their possession by unauthorised persons.
But even as the efforts to recover illegal firearms gains momentum, it remains unclear how many weapons are in wrong hands and the specific targets being worked on by authorities.
Internal Security Minister John... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Plans New Firearms Act, Gun Destruction to Reduce Gun Violence
17 March 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Plans are underway to amend the Firearms Act so that the law adequately addresses and punishes those who misuse guns, writes Charles Ariko.
The proposed Act that will replace the one enacted in 1970, will spell out severe sentences for people who cause insecurity and violence by misusing guns.
The education minister, Namirembe Bitamazire, recently said the national action plan would involve educating the public on the collection and destruction methods of... (GunPolicy.org)
400,000 Illegal Guns in Uganda Alone: East African Nations Destroy Firearms
16 March 2007
New Vision (Kampala) / IRIN
KAMPALA — Laws to control illegal trafficking of small arms across East Africa and the Horn should be harmonised to make them more effective and curtail instability in the region, according to analysts.
The call was made at a meeting in Kampala, as Kenyan authorities destroyed 8,000 illegal weapons recovered by the police over the past few months in Nairobi's Uhuru park. This brought to 12,000 the number of guns destroyed in Kenya over the past few years.
"We are... (GunPolicy.org)
Illegal Guns in East Africa Reduced from 600,000 to 450,000, Say Studies
15 March 2007
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
Uganda has the highest number of small arms and light weapons in illegal hands of the three countries in East Africa, largely because of its unstable political history, according to a researcher.
"In Uganda we have had a bad political history. Governments have been toppled, and when soldiers are running away, they carry their guns to unknown destinations," Richard Nabudere, coordinator of Uganda's National Focal Point on Small Arms and Light Weapons, said on Tuesday... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Plans to Revamp Its Gun Laws to Counter Regional Gun Running
14 March 2007
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Government is designing a comprehensive firearms policy to replace the current obsolete Firearms Act of 1970, which will among other things curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the country and the Great Lakes region.
Speaking at a media meeting at Hotel Africana on Tuesday, the coordinator of the Uganda National Focal Point, Richard Nabudere, said the new policy is in its final stages.
"We are developing a comprehensive policy... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Disarmament of Karamojong Cattle Herders 'Good, Should Go On'
12 January 2007
New Vision (Kampala), Opinion
The Karimojong use the gun with impunity. For decades, no one in the region and neighbouring districts has been spared. For this reason, the on-going disarmament exercise should continue, according to the UPDF and some Karimojong leaders.
In 2002, the warriors killed an Irish Catholic priest, the Rev. Fr. Michael O'toole Declan, his driver Patrick Longoli and cook, Fidele Longole. Declan who was attached to the Panyangara Catholic parish in Kotido, was ambushed at... (GunPolicy.org)
Great Lakes Leaders Agree to Seize Guns from Nomadic Pastoralists
15 December 2006
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — A new regional security agreement unveiled yesterday proposes the disarmament of nomadic pastoralists in Kenya, Uganda and Sudan.
The programme, targeting the entire Great Lakes Region, proposes a joint security management of common borders to oversee activities in 12 border zones identified by member States.
The programme was unveiled at the ongoing second summit of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region at Gigiri, Nairobi.
It says each... (GunPolicy.org)
Cross-Border Gun Running is Major Problem in Karamoja, Uganda
28 November 2006
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — Inter-tribal raids among Karimojong have been going on for centuries. While these were fought with spears and arrows in the past, today they are fought with guns, which are flowing in from neighbouring countries, causing more loss of life and affecting more districts.
And while acquiring cows for the dowry of young warriors was the main motive in the past, commercialisation has now set in.
Stolen cows are being sold at cattle markets in Karamoja, and... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Chief Defends Violent Disarmament of Karamojong Warriors
6 November 2006
New Vision (Kampala), Interview
KAMPALA — The disarmament of Karimojong warriors (Karachuna) recently resulted in the death of UPDF's Maj. Kham Rwashande and his team. Later, a UPDF helicopter killed several people and cattle after it was attacked by warriors on Saturday. The UPDF Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Aronda Nyakairima, talked to Alfred Wasike about the exercise.
How is the disarmament exercise progressing?
We are doing very well. There is no way out of this one. All the illegal guns must... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Home to 50,000 Illegal Firearms Amid Fears of Growing Gun Culture
6 November 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala), Column
Marauding Karimojong warriors struck again last week, killing 22 people including a battalion commander. This figure only accounts for fallen army servicemen.
The death toll on the civilian population — that is suffering this vicious cycle of violence — is unknown though believed to be in double figures.
Decades of cattle rustling by the Karimojong warriors is part of a wider Ugandan problem — the gun culture that has bred violence in almost every part of this... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Sweep Kills 2 'Cattle Rustlers,' Recovers 24 Illegal Guns
13 October 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
NAKAPIRIPIRIT — The army, on Wednesday, recovered 24 guns during a joint cordon and search operation on Kadam Mountain in Nakapiripirit district.
A combination of the 29th battalion from Soroti, 19th battalion from Moroto and 33rd battalion under the command of Lt Col Hassan Kimbowa on Tuesday night took the unsuspecting warriors unaware and besieged the mountain.
This followed a tip off given to the president during his recent visit to Karamoja at Morulinga state... (GunPolicy.org)
Deadly Arms Entering Uganda, Says Globalisation of Gun Trade Report
4 October 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
Uganda is one of the "sensitive" destinations for deadly weapons purchased through a scrappy arms trade framework, a report by the Control Arms Campaign says.
The report, Arms Without Borders, says globalisation of the arms industry had opened up loopholes in all current arms trade regulations, allowing sales to human rights abusers and countries under arms embargoes.
"Excluding China, for whose companies there is insufficient data, 85 of the world's top 100 arms... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandans Give Up 12,000 Guns for Destruction After Peace Races
25 September 2006
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
NAIROBI — Some 12,000 illegal guns have been surrendered by the Karamojong of Uganda since last year as a result of several peace athletic events organised by the Tecla Lorupe Peace Foundation.
The Ugandan minister for Primary Education, Mr Peter Lokeris, said the races had been instrumental in making his people give up the illegal firearms.
The Karamojong, who live in northern Uganda, often raided the Pokot and the Turkana in Kenya for cattle. The three communities... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Deserters Charged With Stealing Army Guns to Rent for Crime
25 August 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
HOIMA — There are still more people in illegal possession of guns, the Mid-Western Region Police Commander, Mr Eric Semakula, said on Tuesday.
He was addressing journalists at his office in Hoima town.
"These guns are hired for highway robberies and murders," Semakula said.
"Investigations are being carried out to crackdown on people involved."
The press briefing followed the recovery of two sub machine guns with magazines containing live ammunition from a UPDF... (GunPolicy.org)
New Guns Smuggled Into Uganda from Europe, Says Army
18 August 2006
New Times / AND
The chief of personnel and administration in the Uganda People's Defence Forces,
Col Phenehas Katirima, told parliament that new guns suspected to have been smuggled from European countries are held by Karamojong warriors and other groups.
"Brand new guns from western Europe, across the Mediterranean and the Middle East have been seen in Karamoja. I am very sure they are not from Africa," Katirima told legislators on the Defence and Internal Affairs parliamentary... (GunPolicy.org)
In Uganda's Karamoja, Gun Confiscation Called Heavy Handed, Abusive
18 July 2006
IRIN (UN News)
NAKAPIRIPIRIT — The fall of the infamous dictator Idi Amin heralded a new era for Uganda. Unfortunately for the northeastern region of Karamoja it also heralded the era of the gun. Fleeing soldiers abandoned their arsenal of automatic weapons and local pastoralist Karamojong quickly found that the Kalashnikov was more effective than the spear. Cattle raiding would never be the same again.
Death, hunger and paralysing insecurity have been the result, both for Karamoja... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Recovers 1,258 Guns in Karamoja Disarmament
5 July 2006
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The army has recovered 1,258 guns and 370 head of cattle during the ongoing search-and-cordon operation in Karamoja region to disarm the warriors.
Army spokesman for north-eastern and eastern Uganda, Capt. Paddy Ankunda, said on Sunday, "During the month of June, we recovered 1,258 guns and 370 head of cattle from the warriors. Seventeen warriors were prosecuted but unfortunately the warriors killed 18 civilians and one UPDF soldier."
He said the... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda's 'Peaceful' Rural Disarmament Campaign Continues, Says Army
3 July 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The disarmament exercise in Karamoja continues, the army has clarified. The UPDF Spokesman, Maj. Felix Kulayigye, said in a press statement yesterday that contrary to reports that the exercise had been called off, it was successfully being carried out.
"Facts of the matter are that the UPDF is continuing with the programme. Let it be known that the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Forces, and the UPDF 3rd Division Commander met Members of... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda's Karamoja Gun Confiscation is On Course, Says Army Chief
1 July 2006
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Aronda Nyakairima, on Friday said the disarmament exercise in Karamoja is on course and will rid the region of all illegal weapons used for rustling and other crimes.
"We have not changed our position on the disarmament of Karamoja. The President has been clear on this issue since 1986. What the Karimojong need is education, peace and development and not guns," Nyakairima, said in an interview at the UPDF's 4th Division... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Halts Forceful Gun Seizure Campaign in Karamoja Region
1 July 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KARAMOJA — The Uganda Peoples Defence Forces have suspended the forceful disarmament exercise in Karamoja region.
The order to suspend the exercise was made by the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Aronda Nyakairima, following a meeting with members of Parliament from the region.
During the meeting, on Tuesday, MPs accused the government forces of torture, rape, looting and destructing homesteads during the forceful disarmament exercise.
Defence Minister Crispus... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Soldier Shot Off Boy's Testicles for Questioning Gun Confiscation
1 July 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — In what Moroto district authorities have described as a gross human rights abuse, a teenage boy in Iriri Sub country has lost his testicles after they were shot by a UPDF soldier in the on going disarmament operation.
Following the shooting, the victim only identified as Keem, 19, had his two testicles cut off by doctors at Matany hospital on Thursday. The boy was shot for allegedly questioning UPDF's new cordon and search exercise to rid Karamoja of... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Investigates Abuse in Karamoja Gun Confiscation Raids
29 June 2006
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The army has launched an investigation into alleged abuse by officers carrying out the "cordon and search" disarmament exercise in Karamoja.
The Minister of State for Defence, Ruth nankabirwa, said yesterday if the allegations were verified and culprits identified, they would be dealt with.
She, however, denied reports that the UPDF had suspended the "cordon and search" for guns.
The UNDP also announced that it had suspended its operations in Karamoja... (GunPolicy.org)
Gun Seizure Backfires as UNDP Halts Uganda Disarmament Program
28 June 2006
Associated Press
UNITED NATIONS — The U.N. Development Program has halted a voluntary disarmament program in Uganda's troubled northeast amid new reports of rights abuses by government troops in the region, a spokesman said Wednesday.
The $1 million U.N. Development Program project awarded people in the Karamoja region food, building materials or cash in exchange for their weapons. Less than $300,000 had been spent so far, UNDP spokesman William Orme said.
It was meant to complement... (GunPolicy.org)
Rift Within UN on Uganda's Forced Disarmament of Karamojong Villages
21 June 2006
Inner City Press (New York)
UNITED NATIONS — As the United Nations prepares for a two-week conference on small arms, questions about a UN-funded disarmament program in Uganda have gone unanswered, including at a press conference mid-Wednesday. Amid happy talk about member states reducing weapons, and side-questions about the 100,000 protest letters the National Rifle Association has submitted, the reported abuse of the Karamojong pastoralists has thus far not been on-the-record comment by the UN... (GunPolicy.org)
Uganda Named in China Gun Deal: Amnesty International Report
14 June 2006
Nation Media / AND
A new report by Amnesty International has named Uganda among countries receiving arms from secretive Chinese arms dealers.
China is described by the report as fast emerging as one of the world's biggest, most secretive and irresponsible arms exporters.
The June 11 report by the London based watchdog Amnesty International is titled China: Sustaining conflict and human rights abuses.
The report says that Chinese weapons have helped sustain brutal conflicts,... (GunPolicy.org)
Extinguishing the Fire of Small Arms in East Africa
7 June 2006
IRIN (UN News)
JINJA — As flames licked the tightly stacked pyre of carefully positioned weapons, an occasional loud crack pierced the air, as some gun with ammunition lodged inside discharged its payload straight into the ground.
The weapons had been driven firmly and vertically into the earth to prevent any risk of injury to the workers and the people watching the destruction in the town of Jinja, in eastern Uganda, on Monday.
The pyre included weapons ranging from crude... (GunPolicy.org)
85 Karamojong Warriors on Trial in Uganda for Illegal Gun Possession
6 June 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
MOROTO — The army's 3rd Division Court Martial yesterday started the trial of 85 Karimojong warriors at Moroto army tactical headquarters over illegal possession of firearms.
The three-day court hearing is being chaired by Lt. Col. Edward Sebugwawo, the commander of the 405 Brigade.
The 3rd Division army spokesman in Charge of Disarmament based in Moroto, Lt. Gabriel Lomogin, said the court martial team arrived in the district over the weekend.
"They are today... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Recovers 436 Guns from Karamojong Warriors
5 June 2006
New Vision (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The UPDF 3rd Division public relations officer, Lt. Henry Obbo, said on Saturday that 2,232 bullets were also recovered and 86 warriors captured in Moroto, Nakapiripirit, Kotido and Kaabong districts.
"We recovered 40 guns on Tuesday, while 12 guns were voluntarily handed over to our forces in Namalu sub-county, Nakapiripirit district," Obbo said.
He said the army also recovered 114 head of cattle and rescued two LRA abductees.
He said a number of... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Kills Nine Karamojong Warriors in Disarmament Drive
29 May 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KARAMOJA — At least nine Karimojong warriors have been killed in separate incidents in what the army calls 'Cordon and Search' operations in the ongoing forceful disarmament in the Karamoja sub-region.
According to the UPDF third division disarmament Spokesman, Lt Gabriel Lomongin, four worriors and three soldiers were killed in Karamoja in a May 4 operation.
He said 88 warriors were arrested and one injured.
"Six other people were injured in Nakapiripirit and we... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya, Uganda Sign Pact to Curb Illegal Gun Trade
29 May 2006
East African Standard (Nairobi)
The Fifth Joint Communique signed by Kenya and Ugandan Border commissioners on Friday proposes that the two governments co-operate and contain the flow of illegal small arms.
The Communique signed by the Head of the Kenyan delegation, Western PC Abdul Mwaserah and the Head of the Ugandan delegation, Tororo Resident DC Dauda Kasibante called for a joint approach on terrorism, disarmament and cattle rustling.
They want co-operation in arresting cross-border crimes as... (GunPolicy.org)
Two Congolese Women Arrested Over Gun Trafficking in Uganda
28 May 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
The army has arrested two Congolese women for alleged involvement in illegal gun trafficking in Karamoja, Uganda.
The Third Division army Spokesperson, Lt. Henry Obbo, said the women, whose names were not readily available, were arrested over the weekend in Abim in Kotido district at the Uganda-Sudan boarder.
He said the women were arrested with two sub-machine guns loaded with 120 rounds of live ammunition.
"We suspect they are the part of the gang that has been... (GunPolicy.org)
57,000 Guns Burnt in Uganda Steel Mill Furnace
25 May 2006
New Vision (Kampala)
A total of 57,000 guns were on Saturday burnt at the Steel Rolling Mills in Jinja. The firearms, ferried to the factory on two trailer trucks amid tight security, were fed into the huge boiler-furnace and smelted.
Army spokesman Maj. Felix Kulayigye said the firearms were part of the stock of unserviceable weapons accumulated since colonial times.
Col. Eric Mukasa, the UPDF Inspector General for Military Equipment, headed the exercise.
UNDP expert on small arms... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Destroys 57,000 Surplus Guns
22 May 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
KAMPALA — The UPDF has started disposing of an estimated 57,000 guns deemed obsolete and unserviceable. The Army Spokesman, Maj. Felix Kulayigye, said the United Nations Development Programme is funding the month-long exercise.
Small arms demobilisation experts from the UN and Safe Africa, a South African NGO, are assisting UPDF's Inspectorate of Military Equipment in carrying out the exercise.
Addressing journalists at the Steel Rolling Mills in Jinja on Saturday... (GunPolicy.org)
Alleged Congolese Arms Trafficker Captured at Roadblock in Uganda
19 May 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
MBALE — The ongoing disarmament programme in Karamoja has seen the arrest of a Congolese national suspected to be part of a ring that is aiding the proliferation of small arms in the sub region.
The man, whose identity is yet to be disclosed, was arrested on Tuesday at an impromptu roadblock by the army and police on the Kotido — Kaabong Road.
"Security personnel searched everyone and eight empty magazines as well as 120 live ammunitions were found with the... (GunPolicy.org)
Ugandan Army Recovers 32 Guns from Karamojong Warriors
19 May 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
MBALE — The army has recovered 32 SMG riffles and 283 rounds of ammunition from the Karimojong warriors in Kotido district, the 3rd Division Army spokesperson, Lt Henry Obbo, has said.
Speaking to Daily Monitor in Mbale on May 14, Obbo said 15 guns and over 170 rounds of ammunition were recovered from one kraal in Rengem sub-county.
According to Obbo, the 67th Battalion assisted by the Internal Security officers used 'cordon and search' method to recover the... (GunPolicy.org)
New Ugandan Gun Law Provides Heavy Fines for Owners of Illegal Guns
5 May 2006
Daily Monitor (Kampala)
Parliament yesterday passed the Firearms (Amendment) Bill 2004 effectively raising penalties against those found with illegal guns.
The Bill amends the Firearms Act and seeks to strengthen penalties with a view to "combating and providing sufficient deterrent against offences involving possession and use of fire-arms."
Reading the Bill for the second time, Internal Affairs Minister Ruhakana Rugunda said it was important to provide for deterrent sentences in light of... (GunPolicy.org)
Kenya,Uganda,East Africa,Central Africa
Central and East African Nations Cross Milestone in War on Gun Violence
5 May 2006
Daily Nation (Nairobi)
Agreement on illegal arms crackdown in Horn of Africa and Great Lakes region set to come into force today as 12 countries join hands to promote peace and fight criminals
The crackdown on illegal guns in the Great Lakes and the Horn of Africa is set to enter a critical phase today when the Nairobi protocol for the prevention, control and reduction of small arms and light weapons comes into force.
The birth of the treaty is a dream come true for Kenya, which initiated... (GunPolicy.org)