Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kipchumba Murkomen, has underscored the importance of deepened regional and international cooperation in addressing the evolving threats posed by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, calling it a cornerstone for achieving sustainable peace and security in Eastern and Central Africa.
Speaking during the official opening of the 16th Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) meeting of the Regional Centre on Small Arms (RECSA) held in Nairobi, CS Murkomen emphasized that collaboration among countries is essential in curbing the spread of illicit arms, which continue to destabilize regions and fuel conflict.
“Cooperation between countries in addressing the complex and evolving threats posed by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons is key in ensuring sustainable peace and security in the region,” said Murkomen.
This year’s meeting marks 20 years since the establishment of RECSA in 2005. The TAC has, over the past two decades, played a pivotal role in developing and guiding strategies to combat the spread of small arms in the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa regions.
As the host country of RECSA, Kenya has been at the forefront of efforts to combat illicit arms trafficking, contributing to the strengthening of global cooperation, advancing international disarmament frameworks, and supporting capacity-building across the region.
“Kenya remains committed to the objectives of RECSA. But more needs to be done. I call on all stakeholders to renew their commitment to RECSA as we reform it to make it better suited to confront emerging threats effectively,” the CS added.
Murkomen was joined by Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr. Raymond Omollo, RECSA Executive Secretary Jean Pierre Betindji, and delegates from the organization’s 11 member states. The meeting focused on reviewing progress, sharing best practices, and exploring reforms to enhance RECSA’s operational effectiveness in the face of growing security challenges.
The CS praised the resilience and commitment of member states, urging them to remain united and proactive in disarmament efforts and to address the root causes of insecurity, including transnational crime and terrorism.
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