If you are one of those who were wondering why Uganda and the world at large is experiencing rampant gun-related crimes, a new report by the Small Arms Survey found out that 85% of the world’s estimated one billion guns are in the hands of civilians.
Of these, a stunning 857 million are owned by private citizens, with only 133 million in the hands of authorized military forces and just 23 million used by law enforcement.
Victor Burikukiye, Chairperson Regional Affairs’ committee yesterday presented a report before the East African Legislative Assembly in Arusha, Tanzania, and indicated that civilians in the region have more guns than security agencies. The report says there are 39 million illegal firearms in Africa, including almost eight million illegal guns in East Africa alone.
The presented report showed that one in four guns is in the hands of the armed forces. It also stated that the illegal sale of small fire arms in worth Shs1 billion a year.
Somalia, Burundi, South Sudan and Democratic Republic of Congo were mentioned as the top countries in Africa to have most guns at disposal for civilians.
The legislators said governments must do more to disarm civilians because such a situation is a serious threat to peace and stability.