On Monday  23 September 2024, at the Police Training School in Gishari, the Ministry of Interior, in partnership with the Regional Centre on Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA), launched Africa Amnesty Month 2024. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the surrender of illicit small arms and light weapons.

The event was officiated by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, with the Executive Secretary of RECSA, the National Focal Person on Small Arms, and the Commandant of PTS-Gishari among others notable attendees.

The launch also marked the start of a five day training program on Physical Security and Stockpile Management (PSSM) for 40 personnel from Rwandan defense and security organs.

During his speech at the launch, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Mr. SESONGA Benjamin, praised the establishment of an amnesty month as a commendable initiative by continental institution. He emphasized that it addresses the African security context, where conflicts, driven by a variety of factors, often prompt civilians to acquire weapons for self-protection.

Mr. Sesonga further highlighted that the situation is exacerbated by the widespread proliferation and circulation of small arms and light weapons, which unfortunately contribute to insecurity when they fall into the wrong hands.

Jean Pierre Betindji, Executive Secretary of RECSA, stressed the importance of collective commitment to addressing the proliferation of illicit arms, noting that they continue to be a significant source of instability across Africa, fueling conflicts, genocide, and criminal activities.

He stated, “the root causes of many conflicts stem from the diversion and mismanagement of ammunition from state stockpiles. Those who use illicit arms often obtain them from state stocks. If they cannot buy arms, where do they get them? Member states should improve the management of data and records on arms usage.”

CP (Rtd) Vianney NSHIMIYIMANA, Head of Small Arms and International Cooperation Department in the Ministry of Interior, and the National Focal Person on Small Arms and Light Weapons, emphasized that the PSSM training under the Africa Amnesty project aims to equip defense and security personnel with skills for efficient equipment and ammunition management. He reiterated that enhancing techniques for securing and storing arms is essential to preventing their misuse and ensuring peace.