Bissau, Guinea Bissau - A Regional Workshop of Focal Persons on Weapons and Ammunition Management Baseline Assessment was successfully held from 8 to 10 September 2023 in Bissau, Guinea Bissau.
The workshop aimed to deepen the role of national focal points in charge of arms and ammunition management and improve the security of countries in the region.
The opening ceremony of the workshop witnessed four notable speeches delivered by distinguished personalities.
General Delmino Segismundo MOTA, the President of the National Commission of Small Arms and Light Weapons of Guinea Bissau, expressed his warm welcome to the participants and acknowledged the constant support of his country's partners. Mr. Paul Haltom, the Director of UNIDIR Conventional Arms and Ammunition Program, expressed his gratitude to ECOWAS for collaborating with his institution on the methodology assessing the management and life cycle of weapons. He emphasized that the contributions made by participants at the workshop will make a significant impact in improving the relevant roadmaps.
Amb Abdel-Fatau MUSAH, the ECOWAS Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, represented by Mr. Joseph AHOBA, Head of the Small Arms Division, highlighted the efforts being made by the Commission to implement the provisions of the ECOWAS Convention on Small Arms and Light Weapons. He mentioned ongoing initiatives such as the marking of weapons in member states and tracing projects. He expressed hope that the results of the workshop would serve as a basis for further action and be communicated to relevant authorities at the end of the proceedings.
The workshop provided a platform for participants to share their expertise and experiences on weapons and ammunition management. It facilitated discussions on improving the security landscape in the region and strengthening national frameworks and strategies to combat illicit arms trafficking.
The workshop was a collaborative effort between the National Commission of Small Arms and Light Weapons of Guinea Bissau, UNIDIR, and ECOWAS. It demonstrated the commitment of these organizations to promoting peace, security, and stability in the region.
Overall, the Regional Workshop of Focal Persons on Weapons and Ammunition Management Baseline Assessment was a significant step forward in enhancing the management and life cycle of weapons in the region. The results and outcomes of the workshop will play a crucial role in guiding future actions and strategies to ensure the safety and security of countries in the region.
For more information, please contact:
[Organization] External Relations- ECOWAS Development Partners Activities Platform
[Email] kskouadio@ecowas.int
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