By Business Insider Reporter
The Tanzania Police Force has announced a two-month arms amnesty, aimed at curbing the spread of illegal firearms that have fuelled crime, insecurity, and cross-border trafficking.
The programme, which runs from September 1 to October 31, 2025, provides individuals in possession of illegal weapons the chance to surrender them without facing prosecution.
The amnesty, gazetted under Government Notice No. 537 on August 29, 2025, is part of a broader global campaign spearheaded by the United Nations to reduce the circulation of small arms, particularly in regions vulnerable to armed conflict and organised crime.
Small arms challenge in Tanzania
Tanzania, like many East African countries, has long grappled with the problem of illicit small arms.
Porous borders, especially with conflict-affected neighbours, have made the country a transit and destination point for illegal weapons.
Studies by regional security think tanks indicate that these arms often find their way into the hands of poachers, organised crime networks, and even local gangs, fuelling armed robberies, land disputes, and cattle rustling.
Authorities say that the proliferation of unregistered firearms has also undermined community safety in both urban and rural areas, while complicating efforts to control violent crime.
“The voluntary surrender of illegal firearms nationwide will take place on any day from September 1, 2025, to October 31, 2025. Anyone who surrenders an illegal firearm within that period will not face any legal action,” the Police statement confirmed.
Scope of the amnesty
Illegal weapons can be handed in at any police station, local government office, or ward executive office. The programme also covers firearms that were legally registered but no longer valid, such as those belonging to deceased owners, weapons once registered to security companies that have ceased operations, or firearms transferred without official approval.
Regional and global efforts
Tanzania’s move mirrors similar arms amnesties across Africa and beyond, as countries step up efforts to reduce the risks posed by small arms to security and development. The initiative ties into the African Union’s “Silencing the Guns” agenda and Tanzania’s domestic push to strengthen national security ahead of the 2025 elections.
Security analysts note that past amnesty exercises in East Africa have yielded mixed results. While thousands of weapons have been surrendered, experts caution that sustained enforcement, cross-border cooperation, and community awareness will be key to ensuring long-term impact.
