Abstract: This article outlines the effects of proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) on women’s security in Northern Kenya. The article seek not only to illustrate women as victims of the proliferation of the small arms and light weapons but also to understand their role as actors who can bring about active change against the vice in communities that they live in. These efforts may then contribute to sustainable peace in Northern Kenya. The article presents the gendered cost of proliferation of small arms and light weapons including the direct and indirect ways in which women are affected by the influx of the small arms ad light weapons in their communities. The article assesses how SALW contribute to gender based violence, the impact of proliferation of SALW on women’s productive activities and finally the contribution of SALW to the displacement of women. The article also reviews the legal tools against trading of small arms as well as how the increase in women’s voice in the region is guiding the formulation of both local and national legislation. The article also surveys some of the promising practices guarding them against the negative effects of proliferation of small arms and light weapons.
Keywords: Small arms proliferation, light weapons, women’s security.
Title: EFFECTS OF PROLIFERATION OF SMALL ARMS AND LIGHT WEAPONS ON WOMEN’S SECURITY IN NORTHERN KENYA
Author: Monica Atieno Opondo, Susan Wamuti, Damacrine Kwamboka Nyambati
International Journal of Social Science and Humanities Research
ISSN 2348-3156 (Print), ISSN 2348-3164 (online)
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