Assessments
When referring to a national assessment of the small arm problem, SaferAfrica implies the use of a specific methodology designed to ensure the gathering of relevant information from all stakeholders in a comprehensive and inclusive manner. This methodology is referred to as a national mapping since in essence all dynamics of the small arms problem are explicitly identified, dissected and addressed through the development of the national action plan on small arms.
The national mapping is divided into distinct phases for the gathering and analysis of information. Constant monitoring and verification is undertaken through out the mapping to ensure sufficient flexibility to scope for dynamics which are not immediately apparent, and to make adjustments for unforeseen eventualities. The information gathering process is undertaken indepth across all provinces of the country to ensure that the provincial realties are reflected in the national action plan.
The national assessment involves four phases:
- Preparatory phase: This involves the establishment of the frame of reference; determine the objectives; and plan the mapping. Read more …
- Mapping phase: Undertake the geo-political mapping; attitude mapping and resource mapping. Read more …
- Analysis phase: This involves the analysis of the factors and plotting the courses of action. Read more …
- Implementation and verification phase: This involves the implementation, monitoring and verification phase. Read more …
The mapping approach as outlined above encourages national stakeholders to undertake research and analysis into the uniqueness of their own problem; ensures the emergence of a fully agreed national plan at inter-agency and civil society level; assists with the earmarking of national and foreign funds to accomplish implementation; and supports the first phase of implementation to consolidate national capacities and ensure that the foundations are laid for sustainable and effective implementation.
Mapping and National Action Plans
The term mapping is used to describe the elaborate and comprehensive information collection process devised to gather the information necessary for the generation of a National Action Plan (NAP). The National Action Plan is a document which outlines the necessary steps, identifies tasks to role players and allocates resources. In this manner ensuring the implementation of the activities outlined within the National Action Plan within the stipulated timeframe. The mapping process involves various law enforcement officials and civil society stakeholders at a district, provincial and national level, thus ensuring ownership of the process and the NAP product through consultation and participation.
The mapping process is phased with key milestones signifying its progressions. Prior to the commencement of the mapping, the necessary preconditions need to be met. These include the political will to drive the mapping and the creation and mandating of the appropriate national structures. The preparatory phase deals with the establishment of the parameters of the mapping and the logistics. The mapping phase deals with the actual information gathering within distinct lines including the geo-political, attitude and resource information. The analysis phase synthesises the gathered information and the development of the plan. The implementation and verification phase involves the role out of the National Action Plan on the ground. The mapping process is above all an inclusive process drawing in role players at every level to ensure that there is wide spread ownership at each stage of the plan, and this will articulate to implementation success down the line.
- Assessment process in Kenya (2005)
- Assessment process in Namibia
- Assessment process in Botswana
- Assessment process in Tanzania (PDF)
- Assessment process in Uganda
National Action Plans
The National Action Plan is a document which outlines the activities necessary to reach the objectives for improving the situation on the ground. It comprises of the activities, those responsible, the resources and the timings. In this manner, facilitating implementation in a coordinated manner with specific outcomes in mind. With regards to the better management of SALW, NAPs usually address issues relating to those structures responsible for the implementation of SALW initiatives followed by policy and legislative reviews.
- Botswana National Plan for Arms Management (PDF)
- Kenya National Action Plan for Arms Control and Management (PDF)
- Namibia National Action Plan for Arms Management and Disarmament (PDF)
- Tanzanian National Action Plan for Arms Management and Disarmament: A summary of the National Action Plan (PDF)
- Uganda National Action Plan on Small Arms and Light Weapons (PDF)
Implementation of NAPs
Implementation of National Action Plans is a critical component to effecting change on the ground. Usually the same role players that coordinated the mapping and the development of the NAP are responsible for the implementation of the NAP. At a national level, this is the secretariat to the national focal point. At a provincial level, the actual implementation is undertaken by the provincial focal points. Capacity building is necessary to enhance implementation, and often runs concurrently with the implementation agenda.
For more information on the assessment or mapping methodology, refer to the publication Resolving Small Arms Proliferation: The Development Implementation of National Action Plans on Arms Management and Disarmament (Also in PDF) by Jakkie Potgieter and Angus Urquhart.
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