Small Arms as a Barrier to Sustainable Peace and Development in Somalia

• Ramla Abbas

  University of Nairobi

  Author

• Odote Peterlinus Ouma

  National Defence University - Kenya

  Author

• Kizito Sabala

  University of Nairobi

  Author

Somalia is frequently referred to as a fragile state due to decades of protracted conflicts, which have led to widespread instability and weak governance. Volatility in the country is linked to the widespread proliferation of illegal Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALWs). SALWs are any man-portable lethal weapons designed to expel or launch a shot, bullet, or projectile by the action of an explosive. They are a category of firearms designed for individual use and characterized by their compact size and portability. For three decades, the country has been plagued by conflict and violence, primarily driven by the proliferation of these weapons, which are frequently acquired through illegal channels. These weapons are held by various actors, including armed groups, militias, and civilians, creating a significant challenge in regulating their distribution and use. This article aims to examine the relationship between illegal SALW proliferation and sustainable peace and development in Somalia. The research employs a case study approach, analyzing primary and secondary data to understand how SALWs undermine peace and development in Somalia. Adopting social conflict theory, this study views the societal environment through the lens of power struggles, inequalities, and conflicts among different groups. According to this theory, social structures generate tension and disparities, ultimately leading to violence and conflicts. The findings suggest that the availability of SALWs make it easier for insurgent groups in Somalia to 
engage in violence and criminal activity, such as piracy and extortion, exacerbating the instability of the country. The study proposes that to achieve sustainable peace and development in Somalia, it is essential to address the issue of small arms and implement measures to reduce their proliferation and use, such as stricter laws and enforcement, disarmament programs, and efforts to disrupt the illegal arms trade. In addition, there is a need for greater regional cooperation as a recommendation to manage the problem of illegal SALWs in Somalia. 

1. Ramla Abbas, University of Nairobi

   
   Ramla is a PhD candidate at the Department of Diplomacy and International Studies, University of Nairobi. She is a passionate scholar and has a wealth of knowledge in the field of conflict and peacebuilding. She has extensive experience in both the humanitarian and development worlds, working with International Non-Governmental 
   organizations such as Save the Children International and Mercy Corps. Ramla is also a certified Project Management professional with competencies in Project Management, Monitoring Learning and Evaluation. 

2. Odote Peterlinus Ouma, National Defence University - Kenya

   Dr. Peterlinus Ouma Odote is a multi-skilled professional with a strong academic record and experience who has been successful in research, teaching, and community service. He is a senior lecturer in the subject areas of International Relations, Diplomacy, Conflict and Peace and Security Studies at National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K). He is currently the head of programme at joint command and staff collage (JCSC). 
   
   

3. Kizito Sabala , University of Nairobi

   Kizito Sabala holds a PhD in International Studies, an MA in International Studies, a second MA in Peace and Security Studies, and a Bachelor's in Economics and Sociology. He has over 20 years of professional engagement on matters of peace and security that included serving as the Head of the IGAD Liaison Offices in Juba, South Sudan, and Nairobi, Kenya. Dr. Sabala has also consulted for the Government of Kenya, the East African Community (EAC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), IGAD, UN and the European Union, among others. years of professional engagement on matters of peace and security that included serving as the Head of the IGAD Liaison Offices in Juba, South Sudan, and Nairobi, Kenya. Dr. Sabala has also consulted for the Government of Kenya, the East African Community (EAC), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), IGAD, the UN and the European Union, among others. He is currently a lecturer at the Department of Diplomacy and International Studies at the University of Nairobi and supervises students from the National Defence University and some of its constituent colleges. He has published in his areas of expertise and interests, namely, regionalism. He is currently a lecturer at the Department of Diplomacy and International Studies at the University of Nairobi and supervises students from the National Defence University and some of its constituent colleges. He has published in his areas of expertise and interests, namely: regionalism, Violent Extremism and Terrorism, International Relations, International Mediation and Negotiation, International Conflict Management and Peace and Security Studies.

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