Encouraging (Blacksmiths) Alternatives to Producing Illicit Firearms

Implementing agency: Sierra Leone Action Network on Small Arms

Project timeframe: 01/01/2017 – 31/12/2018

Target countries: West Africa: Bo, Kenema, Freetown , Makeni, Moyamba, Kono and Kaialhaun Districts in Sierra Leone

Goal: Reduce the illicit manufacture and trade of small arms and light weapons in Sierra Leone.

Activities: Map out a survey to identify existing Blacksmiths in the targeted districts, develop a database of existing blacksmiths to be shared with national and local authorities and provide blacksmiths with information and education on the arms and ammunition act through a workshop. Engage in dialogue with Blacksmiths who still wish to produce guns and encourage local manufacturers to register with the National Commission on Small Arms.