ILLICIT ARMS TRADE AND CONFLICT IN AFRICA AN ASSESSMENT OF INTERNATIONAL ARMS CONTROL MEASURES

Abstract

The dimensions and proportions of inter and intra-state conflicts have led to the labelling of Africa as a crisis-ridden continent; but one that cannot be ignored easily. This is because Africa plays "an important role in global economy through her abundant natural resources. However, one peculiar occurrence in these richly endowed countries is conflict. Many of these conflicts have earned intractable status because of the constant flow of arms to warring parties. Regulating these conflicts may be an uphill task unless arms supplies to the warring parties are checked. This paper examines how the flow of arms into Africa can be mitigated through the concerted effort of African stares and the international community's arms control measures. Data for this study were drawn from documented materials like textbooks, journal articles, magazines, newspapers, and internet while analysis was done qualitatively. Findings of the study reveal that arms control measures in Africa are not sufficient to check the menace. It is suggested that the democratic peace theory should be made to reflect internally through peace and good
governance so as not to give the citizens any reason to take up arms against one another.