Peace and Security challenges in West Africa are primarily about responding to the threat of violent conflicts and/or actual violent conflicts, as well as building sustainable human security for all within and across national boundaries. A major lesson learned over the years show that Countries where small arms and armed violence dominate, development suffers, and negative consequences spill over to neighboring countries.

Research shows that insecurity and armed violence are complex phenomena
that need solid evidence-base and concerted efforts in order to be comprehensively addressed. Security is therefore a cornerstone to individual and social wellbeing. The absence of, or threats to security can destroy people's lives and property, hamper community ties and affect daily activities.

This report summarizes the activities implemented over the period 1st January to 31st December 2015 by the ECOWAS-EU Small Arms Project. A pilot project covering two clusters – Sahel and Mano River Union (MRU). The project is funded by the European Union with a contribution of EUR 5,560,000 over an implementation period of 3 Years. This project is a component of the 10th EDF funding for the ECOWAS Peace, Stability and Security (PSS) Programme.