Organized by IANSA (International Action Network on Small Arms), this week aims to raise awareness about the extent of armed violence and urge officials to take effective measures to address it, raise awareness about armed violence and encourage effective actions. The theme chosen this year by IANSA is: “Protecting the future: Controlling small arms and light weapons and their ammunition for global security”.

During the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly held from 24 to 30 September 2024 in New York, the issue of disarmament and international security was placed on the agenda of exchanges and the chairperson of the commission, Ms. Maritza Chan Valverde, revealed: ” Nearly 700 lives are lost because of SALW, mostly young men “. The Programme of Action is even more relevant as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the conflict-related sexual violence mandate, she estimated, noting that between 70% and 90% of conflict-related sexual violence cases involve small arms. This state of affairs is a strong call to redouble actions to fight against the illegal and continuous proliferation of SALW.

Through its disarmament program, WILPF Cameroon carries out actions aimed at drawing the government’s attention to the urgency of taking strong measures to ensure rigorous arms control in order to guarantee peace and security in the country.

This awareness is further amplified by collaboration with its partners, like the Gender Equality Network for Small Arms Control (GENSAC), Cameroon for a World Beyond War (WBW) as well as Cameroon Action Network on Small Arms (CANSA).