Using data from several weapons policy and prevention surveys we were able to extract key information about weapons policy and proliferation in Somalia. We hope it is of use to those looking to get general information about small arms throughout Somalia and if there are policies regulating their usage.
The surveys were taken between 2002 and 20011.
Numbers
There are between 550,000 to 750,000 privately-owned firearms in Somalia
9.1 out of every 100 Somalis own a weapon
Out of 178 countries, Somalia ranks at #58 in total civilian firearm possession
Somalia ranks at #66 in rate of firearm possession of 178 countries
The number of registered firearms in Somalia is 14,000
The rate of firearm registration is 0.15 per every 100 people
The Somali defense forces possess 106,750 firearms
The Somali police possess 14,672 firearms
In 2008 the number of reported firearm homicides totaled 108
The rates of homicide for the following years were: 2002 – 33.10, 2004 – 3.30, 2008 – 1.5
In 2003, Somalia only exported $231 worth of small arms and ammunition
In 2011 a single export load from the UK to Somalia was recorded at $1,758 in value
The usual asking price for an AK47 assault rifle in Somalia is $160
Regulation
It is illegal to manufacture firearms in Somalia without a license
Gun control legislation was introduced in 1963
It is prohibited by law for civilians to possess automatic firearms
Civilians may possess or acquire handguns and ammunition with proper licensing
It is not required by law to register a weapon or to record the sale of a privately-held weapon
Special markings on weapons are not required by law
Dealing weapons by way of business is prohibited without proper licensing
Signatory organizations
League of Arab States
African Union
Regional Centre on Small Arms
Wassenaar Arrangement
United Nations Arms Trade Treaty
United Nations Firearms Protocol
United Nations Small Arms Programme of Action
United Nations Small Arms Register
Sources: Small Arms Survey, International Firearm Injury Prevention and Policy
