Tanzania has signalled plans to strengthen regulation of firearms, targeting tighter controls on both the importation and use of weapons as part of efforts to enhance national security.

Officials say the measures will focus on improving oversight of licensing systems, monitoring the movement of firearms, and ensuring stricter enforcement of existing laws governing civilian possession and use.

The move comes amid broader concerns across the region about the spread of illegal firearms and their link to crime and instability. Strengthening import controls is widely seen as a key step in preventing weapons from entering illicit markets.  

Authorities also plan to reinforce coordination between security agencies to track and regulate firearms more effectively, while tightening compliance requirements for individuals and institutions handling weapons.

Analysts say the proposed measures reflect a wider regional trend, as countries seek to curb the proliferation of small arms through stricter legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms.

Overall, the policy direction underscores Tanzania’s push to strengthen internal security by closing gaps in firearm regulation and limiting access to weapons outside controlled systems.