Can the DRC’s new roadmap on small arms finally break the cycle of violence?

Crowds flee reported gunfire at Congo rebel leader rally in Bukavu

FILE PHOTO: Members of the M23 rebel group stand guard as people attend a rally addressed by Corneille Nangaa, Congolese rebel leader and coordinator of the AFC-M23 movement, in Bukavu, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo February 27, 2025. REUTERS/Victoire Mukenge/File Photo

Source: REUTERS

The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has adopted a new roadmap to combat the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW), replacing a previous plan from June 2024.

Unveiled during a forum in Kinshasa on Thursday, May 29, by the National Commission for the Control of Light and Small Arms (CNC-APLC), the 2025–2026 roadmap supports the implementation of the country’s broader national action plan on SALW control for 2024–2028.

Speaking on behalf of Interior and Security Minister Peter Kazadi Shabani, Deputy Chief of Staff Elie Nkumbo welcomed the initiative, calling it a necessary tool to curb the illicit arms trade fueling insecurity and armed conflict across the country.

According to reports from Actualite.CD, the roadmap is structured around six key pillars: legal reform, institutional capacity-building, arms and ammunition management, voluntary civilian disarmament, gender inclusion, and research.

Authorities say the strategy aims to reduce armed violence and bolster national security and development.

Padmore Takramah