NATCOM Reveals Annual Arms Import of $1.9 Billion into Africa

The National Commission for the Coordination and Control of Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons expressed deep concern about the increasing proliferation and infiltration of arms and ammunition throughout Africa, attributing this trend to the exacerbation of conflicts in various parts of the continent.

Acting Director-General of NATCOM, Adejare Adegbenro, issued a statement in Abuja on Tuesday, lamenting that the presence of arms and ammunition had significantly contributed to conflicts across Africa. He emphasized that African nations collectively imported around $1.9 billion worth of arms and ammunition in 2019.

Adegbenro proposed that sanctions be imposed on arms producers to curb their capacity to exacerbate conflicts, ultimately aiming to reduce the occurrence of violence and instability. He stressed that despite ongoing efforts for a peaceful and prosperous Africa, external sources continued to contribute to the inflow of arms.

He highlighted the repercussions of arms trade across the continent, from insurgencies and civil wars to banditry and violent crimes, which have hindered Africa’s progress. Adegbenro mentioned instances where arms and ammunition ended up in the hands of non-state actors and criminals, further destabilizing regions.

The director-general cited cases such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, where ammunition from unauthorized sources, including foreign producers, were found in the hands of armed groups. He emphasized the importance of NATCOM’s role in eradicating illegal arms trade.

Adegbenro strongly advocated for sanctions against arms producers and suppliers who contribute to conflicts. He believed that such sanctions would curtail their capacity to inflame conflicts, thereby leading to a reduction in violence and instability across the continent.