URA has officially launched the Africa Region Training on Preventing the Illicit Transfer of Chemicals in Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations (FCAS). The training brings together participants from across the region to strengthen capacity, enhance coordination, and promote effective measures to prevent the misuse and illegal movement of hazardous chemicals in vulnerable settings.
The three-day training has been organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Gender, Labor and Social Development (MGLSD) and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), brings together participants from over 20 African States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention.
Moses Kyomuhendo, the Manager of Enforcement Central URA, added that the training will also equip Customs officers and members from various African national authorities with the skills needed to prevent the illegal transnational movement of hazardous chemicals
“Prevention of illicit transfer of toxic chemicals is a matter of human security. When such chemicals fall in the wrong hands the consequences can be catastrophic,” he said.
Kyomuhendo explained that URA Enforcement works around the clock to intercept hazardous chemicals at the borders.
“Recently our team intercepted nearly 20 tons of sodium cyanide briquettes at Malaba; the chemicals were found in a 40-feet container lacking the required licensing from the National Explosives Inspector,” he said.
Eva Katusabe, the Ag. Commissioner Occupational Safety and Health said the training is important for African countries.
“This training is an opportunity for building technical competence but also strengthening Uganda’s role as a regional hub for chemical safety and security. It positions us as a proactive and responsible State Party under the Chemical Weapons Convention and reflects our commitment to peace, safety, and development,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Beatrix Lahoupe emphasized the importance of detecting and preventing the illegal movement of chemicals, particularly in conflict affected regions characterized by porous borders.
“Customs authorities are often the first line of defence when it comes to preventing the illicit movement of toxic chemicals. They have the ability to monitor, inspect, and control cross-border trade is essential in averting chemicals,” she explained.
On the other hand, Dr. Jaiming Miao, the Regional Coordinator for Africa in the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs, highlighted the broader security implications of chemical trafficking.
By Dismas Nuwaine
