President William Ruto has directed all State agencies handling government firearms to take full responsibility and stop any misuse, loss or tampering with weapons under their control.

Speaking during the destruction of over 6,000 illegal firearms recovered between 2022 and 2025 in Kajiado on Friday, Ruto said the government will not allow tools of violence to spread in communities.

"A firearm in the wrong hands is not just a potent weapon; it is a direct assault on the safety of our citizens, the stability of our society, and the peace we have worked so diligently to build," he said.

Ruto added that criminals with such weapons cause lawlessness, fuel violence and undermine the rule of law.

The president said the destruction of the weapons was a clear signal that the government is fully committed to protecting Kenyans.

"Today’s ceremony, which marks the destruction of more than 6,000 illegal firearms recovered between 2022 and 2025, therefore sends a clear and powerful message: we will not allow violence to take root in our communities," Ruto said.

"We remain firmly committed to disarming those who threaten our peace and to strengthening the safety and security of every citizen," he added.

Ruto said many of the destroyed firearms were surrendered by citizens who responded to amnesty campaigns and disarmament drives.

"I am encouraged to note that a majority of the firearms being destroyed today were voluntarily surrendered by the public," he said.

Ruto said the destruction of firearms was not just symbolic, but a clear show of commitment to peace and public safety.

"The destruction of these firearms is not merely a symbolic act; it is a tangible declaration that we reject the tools of harm and embrace the values of peace, order, and justice."

Going further, the Head of State commended security agencies and citizens, including religious and community leaders, for supporting the effort.

He said the move reflects the country’s commitment to stop the spread of illegal weapons, in line with Kenya’s Constitution.

"The government’s commitment to safeguarding the lives of Kenyans, as enshrined in our Constitution, continues to guide our actions in combating the proliferation of illicit arms," Ruto said.

He added that Kenya was working with local, regional and global partners to address the issue.

Ruto noted that the efforts also support the African Union’s "Silencing the Guns in Africa by 2030" plan.

"While this target remains a work in progress, I am proud to affirm that Kenya has made commendable strides towards that vision," he said.

Ruto said many people surrendering firearms is proof that public trust in the government is growing.

"The fact that many Kenyans have voluntarily surrendered illegal firearms is a strong indication that our peace and security strategy is working," said the President.

He said illegal arms continue to cross into Kenya and called for more action to clear them from the region.

"The Eastern Africa region remains awash with illegal small arms and light weapons, many of which can easily cross our borders and infiltrate our communities," the President added.

In addition, Ruto asked anyone still holding illegal firearms to take advantage of the ongoing amnesty.

"I therefore call upon all citizens who may possess illegal firearms to take advantage of the current amnesty and surrender these weapons to the authorities," he said.

"Do not wait. An illegal firearm makes you less safe; it compromises your safety rather than securing it. Regardless of your intentions, possession of illegal firearms is unlawful, and those found in possession will face the full force of the law," Ruto added.

The President then issued a direct order to all government departments that control firearms to uphold strict accountability and ensure proper management and control of arms under their charge.

"Any form of pilferage, diversion, or misuse of State firearms must be prevented with utmost vigilance," he concluded.