Proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the Karamajong cluster

This study explored the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the karamajong cluster by examining the impact of socio-economic and political factors on proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the Karamajong Cluster. The study sought to find out how small arms and light weapons move within the study area and their effect. A mixed methods research design was used. The target population was the residents of Karamajong cluster who had information regarding the topic under discourse. Their population was 32378 from which a total of 156 respondents who participated was drawn through stratified random sampling for residents and purposive sampling for administrators. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain information from the residents while interview schedule guides were used to obtain information from the cluster heads of the Karamajong cluster. Hypotheses was tested using Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient (r)at α =0.05 level of significance. The results obtained from the study reveals that economic hardship, socio-economic disparities, and political instability significantly contribute to the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) in the Karamajong Cluster. It was determined that 93% of the respondents alluded that there was proliferation of SALW while 7% on the other hand denied this fact. Marginalized communities, driven by poverty and historical conflicts, increasingly turn to arms for protection and power. To address the root causes of SALW proliferation, it is essential to enhance economic stability through development initiatives. Programs should focus on creating job opportunities, reducing poverty, and providing alternative means of income.