African Conference on the Implementation of the United Nations' Programme of Action on Small Arms: Needs and Partnerships

A word from Canada on behalf of Partner Members of the Organisation Committee


Together with South Africa, Kenya, Mali and Nigeria, certain OECD countries, such as Austria, Norway, the Netherlands, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Canada, have sponsored the “African Conference on the Implementation of the United Nations Program of Action on Small Arms: Needs and Partnerships”.

Firstly, we would like to thank our host, South Africa, for having set up this event in Pretoria from the 18th to the 21st of March 2002. The South African Ministry of Foreign Affairs was a most welcoming host, appreciated by all participants.

It is the opinion of Canada that this conference has contributed greatly to the advancement of work done in connection with small arms. The success of this key encounter is primarily linked to the large participation that highlighted it: 41 African countries, 29 OECD countries, 33 NGOs, eight international and regional organisations as well as three observers. We wish to thank all participants who came from all over Africa, Europe, North America and Asia. Due to their generous contribution the conference was a success.

Firstly, African requirements in the fight against the proliferation of small arms were highlighted and the specific needs of each sub-region brought to the fore. Secondly, directives concerning partnerships were developed. It was clearly specified that the small arms project should not be considered as an isolated topic, but rather as a holistic entity, bearing in mind other topics such as security aspects and development as well as humanitarian needs. Partnerships with the NGO were also encouraged for all stages of the project. Finally, it is to be noted that all components of the government - notably development agencies - have been called upon to support the United Nations Program of Action on Small Arms.

During the course of the conference, several participants made reference to a human dimension of the small arms problem. It is important here, to recall that such weapons have caused, and will cause, people to suffer. For Canada, the human being is certainly a central figure to be considered. Improved control of small arms will mean the saving of lives.

You will be able to study the attached report on the Pretoria conference. The report will certainly be an important guideline. We are certain that several partnerships will be formed during the coming months and years, implementing action elements identified in Pretoria. This, in fact, was one of the main reasons for the event: To encourage partnerships between various participants, whether governmental or non-governmental, African, European, Asian and/or North American.

In conclusion, we wish to thank SaferAfrica for having set up a secretariat for the Pretoria conference. Thanks to this team our meetings took place in the best of ambiences, which helped to create a productive working atmosphere.