President William Ruto on Friday, June 13, 2025, presided over the destruction of over 6,000 illegal firearms at the National Police Leadership Academy in Ngong, Kajiado County, in a firm statement against the proliferation of illicit arms in Kenya.
The weapons, recovered between 2022 and 2025, were either voluntarily surrendered by the public or seized during operations by security agencies.
“Today’s ceremony, which marks the destruction of more than 6,000 illegal firearms recovered between 2022 and 2025, therefore sends a clear and powerful message: we will not allow violence to take root in our communities, and we remain firmly committed to disarming those who threaten our peace and to strengthening the safety and security of every citizen,” Ruto said.
The president acknowledged the positive response from the public to government-run amnesty programs and praised community and religious leaders for their role in encouraging disarmament.
He urged any remaining holders of illegal weapons to surrender them under the ongoing amnesty.
“Do not wait. An illegal firearm makes you less safe; it compromises your safety rather than securing it,” Ruto warned.
“Regardless of your intentions, possession of illegal firearms is unlawful, and those found in possession will face the full force of the law.”
He further directed that state agencies responsible for managing government firearms “uphold strict accountability and ensure proper management and control of arms under their charge.”
On Kenya’s global commitments, the president announced plans to pursue international arms control treaties.
“Consequently, we are actively considering the ratification of global treaties, such as the Arms Trade Treaty, which seeks to regulate international trade in conventional arms and prevent their illicit diversion and misuse,” Ruto said.
As the destruction flame was lit, Ruto concluded: “The destruction of these firearms is not merely a symbolic act; it is a tangible declaration that we reject the tools of harm and embrace the values of peace, order, and justice.”