Tribesmen give up their arms [Archives:2003/662/Front Page]

In an unprecedented move that brought hope and optimism to Yemenis throughout the country, some tribesmen have started giving up their arms voluntarily in Dhamar governorate last week. This was carried out as part of the program implemented by the Social Organization of House of Peace (SOHP), which is now conducting the second phase of the national campaign to fight random arms carrying in three districts Ma'abar, Anis and Jahran of Dhamar province.
“We have been impressed by the positive response of many tribesmen who decided to give away their weapons as an indication that they are fed up with violence caused by carrying arms, and want to start a new beginning.” Abdulrahman Al-Marwani, Head of SOHP said.
The campaign aims at raising awareness about hazards of carrying arms illegally, which is in fact the prime reasons of tribal vengeance clashes that usually result in unfortunate deaths and injuries.
The themes of the awareness campaign were presented in the form of sketches, fine art exhibitions and other activities. School bags were given to students who lost their fathers in tribal revenge disputes. Teachers and other social dignitaries supporting the efforts made by SOHP in this respect were honored.
The SOHP aims by such activities to make people aware of such problems which cripple development in the country. The organization started its first campaign against arms carrying early this year in the provinces of Sana'a, Saadah, al-Baidha, and Dhamar. Preparations to carry out the campaign in other areas with support from private sector are also under way.
Tribal vengeance and arms ownership are one of the most serious problems that hamper development of the country and its social and economic stability.
——
[archive-e:662-v:13-y:2003-d:2003-08-25-p:front]