In a strong statement against the proliferation of illegal firearms and the threat they pose to national and regional stability, His Excellency Hon. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, C.G.H., President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Kenya Defence Forces, today presided over the destruction of more than 6,000 illicit small arms and light weapons at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong, Kajiado County.

The event marked the 20th Commemoration of the Regional Centre on Small Arms in the Great Lakes Region, the Horn of Africa and Bordering States (RECSA), an institution that coordinates efforts to combat the spread of small arms and light weapons across 15 African member states.

President Ruto emphasized the importance of collective action in enhancing security, stating:

“A firearm in the wrong hands is not just a weapon; it is a direct assault on the safety of our citizens, the stability of our society, and the peace we have worked so hard to build. Today’s exercise is a bold step in reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to a secure and peaceful future.”

The President lauded the unwavering efforts of Kenya’s security agencies, religious organizations, civil society, and local communities for their roles in the recovery and surrender of illicit arms. He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to support disarmament and community peacebuilding initiatives as part of broader national and regional security strategies.

Regional Support and Collaboration

The destruction of the 6,000 firearms was celebrated not only as a Kenyan achievement but as a regional milestone. RECSA Executive Secretary Mr. Jean-Pierre Betindji commended the joint efforts that made the initiative possible and called for sustained collaboration among member states.

“This symbolic act of destroying illicit weapons sends a strong message: we are united in our quest for peace, development, and security. Removing these weapons from circulation reduces the likelihood of violence, enhances public safety, and fosters environments where communities can thrive,” said Betindji.

Mr. Betindji emphasized that regional stability is key to achieving Africa’s development goals and urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and proactive in arms control efforts.

High-Level Attendance

The event drew the participation of senior government officials and key security leaders. Among them were several Cabinet Secretaries and representatives from RECSA’s 15 member states, signaling continental solidarity in tackling the menace of illicit firearms.

Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome was accompanied by top law enforcement officials including:

• Mr. Mohamed Amin, Director of Criminal Investigations

• Mr. Mathiu Kainga, Commandant, National Police Leadership Academy

• Mr. George Seda, Regional Commander, Nairobi Region

• Alongside other Assistant Inspector Generals and senior officers from various police departments.

Also present at the occasion was Mr. G. Kanja, whose presence alongside the President and other dignitaries further underscored the gravity of the initiative and the government’s multi-agency approach to security and disarmament.

A Symbolic and Strategic Step

The ceremonial destruction of the firearms served as both a symbolic gesture and a practical measure to remove weapons that often fuel crime, communal conflicts, and cross-border insecurity. The event also reflects Kenya’s adherence to international conventions and regional commitments on arms control, including the Nairobi Protocol and the African Union’s Silencing the Guns agenda.

The exercise comes amid intensified national security operations aimed at curbing banditry, violent extremism, and urban crime. The Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on illegal firearm possession, warning that those found in violation of firearms laws will face the full force of the law.

A Call to Action

In his concluding remarks, President Ruto called on all stakeholders—local and international—to remain steadfast in promoting peace and security across the continent.

“Let us remember that peace is not an event—it is a continuous process that demands vigilance, unity, and sacrifice. I urge all of us to be ambassadors of peace and guardians of our communities.”

As Kenya continues to take a leading role in regional security initiatives, today’s event stands as a powerful reminder of the country’s resolve to build a peaceful, safe, and resilient society for current and future generations.

June 13, 2025