Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Emmanuel Tornyi
Published on 2024-02-14 06:29:00
Frank Boateng Asumani, the Head of the National Arms Marking Programme, recently spoke at a regional conference addressing the humanitarian impact of improvised anti-personal mines. During his speech, he emphasized the ongoing initiatives to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, highlighting the need for collective efforts in addressing this issue.
According to Asumani, there are currently 2.3 million small and light weapons in circulation, with 1.2 million of them being legally registered. However, the remaining 1.1 million weapons cannot be properly accounted for. This unaccounted for number raises serious concerns about the level of proliferation in the system. Asumani also noted that the commission is actively seeking funding to assess and understand the extent of the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. The types of weapons in circulation include AK47s, pistols, pump-action guns, and locally manufactured firearms.
Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia also addressed the urgency of confronting this menace with unwavering determination and collective efforts. He emphasized the need for global collaboration to address the issue effectively. This call for collaboration highlights the recognition of the international nature of the problem and the necessity for a united approach in addressing the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
The humanitarian impact of improvised anti-personal mines was a key focus of the regional conference. The use of these mines has been a significant concern in conflict-affected regions, causing devastating and long-lasting effects on civilians and communities. The proliferation of small arms and light weapons exacerbates the impact of these mines, further contributing to the cycle of violence and insecurity in affected areas.
It is imperative to prioritize efforts to address the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, as they are often used to perpetrate violence and human rights abuses in conflict and post-conflict settings. The availability of arms in these environments poses a threat to the safety and security of civilians, hindering efforts for peacebuilding and sustainable development.
Efforts to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons should include comprehensive measures such as arms marking, tracing, and record-keeping to improve accountability and transparency in the handling of these weapons. Additionally, international cooperation and support for capacity-building initiatives in affected regions are crucial for addressing the root causes of this issue.
The regional conference provided a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas and best practices in addressing the humanitarian impact of improvised anti-personal mines and the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. The discussions and insights shared at the conference will contribute to the development of effective strategies and policies to mitigate the adverse effects of these challenges.
In conclusion, the regional conference served as a vital opportunity for leaders, experts, and international organizations to come together and reaffirm their commitment to addressing the humanitarian impact of improvised anti-personal mines and the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. The collective determination exhibited at the conference signals a step in the right direction towards finding sustainable solutions to these complex and pressing challenges.
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