Author(s) :

Mubarak Ahmed Mashi, PhD, Aliyu Mukhtar Katsina, PhD.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Trafficking of small arms, light weapons (SALWs), and drugs in Africa poses severe threats to peace, security, and development in the continent. The continent has long been troubled by the illicit flow of these SALWs and drugs which empowers and motivates terrorists, rebels and insurgent groups to engage in conflict and violence with impunity, fuelling instability and underdevelopment with adverse effects on human security in the continent. The availability and circulation of weapons and drugs is a lucrative venture for those involved in further arms and drug purchases and corrupt officials perpetuating a vicious cycle of violence. Mechanisms in place by states and governments to address the menace in the continent proved ineffective due to corruption, lack of proper and modern border monitoring devices, porous borders, ‘vested interest’ involved in the crime and lack of inter-agency collaboration between various security agencies. It is against this backdrop this paper sought to examine issues and challenges in arms and drug trafficking in Africa to evolve measures that will guarantee security in the continent. The paper concludes that addressing these challenges requires a multidimensional approach that includes strengthening border controls through the use of ICT, improving governance, intensification of the fight against corruption, enhancing inter-agency collaboration, fostering international and continental cooperation, and tackling the root causes of conflict in the continent such as poverty, unemployment, effects of climate change and illiteracy in the continent. Keywords: Trafficking, Small Arms and Light Weapons, Drug, Africa, Security, Development.

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