# Kenya’s Progress in Arms Control

- Link: https://www.military.africa/2024/03/kenyas-progress-in-arms-control/
- Published: 2024-03-22T07:45:56+01:00
- Author: Patrick Kenyette

Kenya is on the verge of achieving a significant milestone in arms control, aligning
with its commitments to regional and international treaties. The country has made
substantial progress in marking official firearms and ammunition, a critical step
in combating the illegal arms trade.

The National Police Service has successfully marked 98% of its firearms stock, while
the Kenya Defence Forces has marked 70%. This achievement was highlighted by Security
Principal Administrative Secretary Wilson Njega, who emphasized the importance of
this initiative in preventing the diversion of weapons to criminal elements and 
ensuring that legitimate weapons transfers are not disrupted.

The marking of firearms is not only a measure to curb illegal trade but also a means
to enhance the traceability of weapons. This is crucial in dismantling criminal 
networks and reducing gun violence, a commitment that Kenya has made through various
international agreements, including the Nairobi Protocol and the United Nations 
Programme of Action on Small Arms.

The Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA) has prescribed this marking exercise to
its member states as part of a broader effort to stem the illicit proliferation 
of small arms and light weapons, thereby promoting peace and security in East and
Central Africa.

Kenya’s remaining unmarked firearms are attributed to new stocks and areas where
the marking exercise has not yet been conducted, such as Wajir and Mandera. Despite
these challenges, the progress made thus far is commendable.

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Ivor Richard Fung, deputy chief of the Conventional Arms Branch at the U.N. Office
for Disarmament Affairs, praised RECSA member states for their transition from manual
to electronic recordkeeping. The deployment of RECSA’s Software Tracing System for
electronic records is a testament to the organization’s efforts in this domain.

The journey towards complete arms control is ongoing, and while significant strides
have been made, there is still work to be done. Kenya’s dedication to this cause
positions it as a leader among nations striving to ensure a safer world through 
stringent arms management.

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Three years ago, President Uhuru Kenyatta [opened](https://www.military.africa/2021/04/kenya-opens-small-arms-production-factory/?amp=1)
the Small Arms Factory in Ruiru, Kiambu County to cater for the country’s small 
arms requirements. The new factory was developed at a cost of Kshs 4 billion and
has an annual single-shift manufacturing capacity of 12,000 assault rifles with 
60% of components being locally manufactured.

Through the local production of weaponry, Kenya seeks to enhance self-reliance, 
domestic innovation, and strengthening of local manufacturing capabilities, while
offering decent jobs for her youth.

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