Uganda will host the Africa Amnesty Month from October 2 to 3rd at the Speke Resort Munyonyo, aimed at encouraging citizens across the continent to surrender illegally acquired firearms. The annual event, initiated by the African Union (AU), seeks to enhance public safety by reducing the circulation of illicit weapons and promoting peace and security.
During a press briefing at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, Simon Mundeyi, spokesperson for the ministry of Internal Affairs, highlighted the significance of the event. He described it as a week-long initiative providing a safe opportunity for individuals to hand over illegal firearms without facing legal consequences.
“This is a chance for anyone to surrender their gun and avoid prosecution that would otherwise involve facing courts of law,” Mundeyi said. He added that all collected firearms would be destroyed to ensure they do not re-enter circulation.
The Africa Amnesty Month, established under the AU’s Silencing the Guns initiative, aims to curb the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, which contribute to violence and instability across the continent.
The conference will bring together policymakers, security experts, and community leaders to discuss strategies for disarmament, public sensitisation on the dangers of illegal firearms, and fostering a culture of peace.
Topics will include the impact of illicit arms on crime rates, terrorism, and communal conflicts, as well as measures to strengthen regional cooperation in arms control.
Mundeyi also revealed that the government is in the process of amending the Firearms Act of 1970. The proposed legislation will introduce stricter regulations and heavier penalties for illegal possession of firearms.
“Many individuals own guns that cannot be traced, posing a significant threat to national security,” he noted. The new law aims to enhance traceability and accountability while deterring the illegal acquisition of weapons.
The ministry of Internal Affairs urged all citizens in possession of illegal firearms to take advantage of the amnesty period to surrender them voluntarily. Mundeyi said community outreach programmes will be conducted in the lead-up to the event to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit arms and the benefits of participating in the amnesty.
Local leaders and civil society organisations, Mundeyi said, are also being mobilised to support the initiative and encourage compliance.
The event is expected to draw participants from across Africa.
