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In 2008, MAG began work in Rwanda to reduce the threat from small arms and light weapons (SALW). Years of protracted conflict in Rwanda have left the country littered with stockpiles of poorly stored surplus weapons and munitions, which present a significant risk to human life and regional peace and security. MAG is working alongside the Rwandan Army and Police to destroy SALW and to create a safer environment for communities recovering from conflict.
MAG's project in Rwanda consists of the following activities:
- Render surplus weapons and munitions useless through the appropriate destruction techniques
- Provide technical assistance and training to the Rwandan Army and Police in the destruction of surplus weapons and unstable ordnance
- Improve the security and management of stockpiles, thereby reducing the likelihood of explosions and looting
MAG's work in Rwanda has benefited many local communities by removing stockpiles that have previously caught fire or detonated, causing death and injury to many innocent civilians. In addition, violent crime associated with the looting of insecurely-stored weapons has decreased in many communities in Rwanda, as citizens are beginning to take an active role in the reporting and surrendering of weapons. MAG's continued work will continue to encourage such progress in Rwanda, as conflict recovery continues to increase safety and awareness of many impacted communities.