6 May 2008
Malanje — Northern Malanje Province governor Cristovao da Cunha on Monday here considered that the illegal possession of fire-arms can create constrains to the national reconciliation process among Angolans.
The official was speaking at the opening of the provincial seminar on disarmament of civilians, having added that the illegal possession of weapons represents an individual and collective insecurity for Angolans.
He also explained that disarming the population ensures stability and security for all.
The governor said that the war that swept the country forced many citizens to own a gun, some of them are still in their possession and, thus, it is necessary that the authorities collect all this material, in a process that should have the participation of all society.
The one-day seminar held by the provincial commission for disarmament of citizens had the participation of police officers, chieftains, municipal administrators, provincial directors and representatives of non-governmental organisations.
Participants will debate issues relating to protocols and programmes of action of the United Nations and SADC on disarming, Angolan government programmes on disarming, strategy of sensitisation campaign, procedure of handing over and reception of weapons.
Angola's legislation on possession and usage of weapons, disarming and social reintegration of former combatants, woman and children as the main causes of proliferation of weapons were debated during the seminar.
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