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Adeladius Makwega – Mbagala
“The use of hired militias (mercenaries) has serious and long-term consequences in terms of security, humanitarian conditions, and politics. According to various reports, including those of the United Nations (UN) concerning several mercenary forces, these impacts include:
Fueling and Prolonging Conflicts: These fighters often intensify warfare, causing conflicts to last longer and become more severe.
Human Rights Violations: Because they are not bound by national military rules of engagement, mercenaries are often involved in extrajudicial killings, torture, rape, sodomy, abuse, and the abduction of innocent civilians.
Destabilizing Regional Security: The movement of fighters from one country to another spreads weapons and military training, threatening the stability of neighboring nations.
Destruction of Infrastructure: Fighting involving such groups often leads to the destruction of social infrastructure such as hospitals, homes, and schools. Their exploitative demands further worsen humanitarian crises.
Weakening National Armed Forces: The presence of mercenary forces can undermine the authority and capacity of a country’s official military, sometimes even causing conflict between the two.
The intensity of their fighting forces civilians to flee their homes, overwhelming neighboring countries with refugees. Overall, the use of mercenaries undermines human dignity, delays lasting peace, and deprives affected regions of development.”
These concerns were strongly emphasized on February 4, 2019, at the United Nations Security Council, where members highlighted how mercenaries threaten not only global peace and security but also the sovereignty and authority of nations, particularly in Africa.
Addressing the meeting, chaired by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea (which held the Council presidency at the time), Secretary-General Professor Antonio Guterres stated that mercenaries are not a new issue. Because their activities are often secretive, it is difficult to obtain accurate data or identify them:
“Reports suggest an increase in the use of such fighters and foreign combatants, making conflicts harder to resolve. Some mercenaries move from one war to another, receiving high pay, carrying out illegal activities with determination, accumulating wealth—whether money or minerals—without accountability, and completely disregarding national and international laws.”
This situation makes it difficult to identify their faces, names, or countries of origin after completing their missions. They often operate in civilian clothing while carrying heavy firearms, possessing significant combat skills and experience.
Professor Guterres warned that mercenary activities are deeply alarming, as they are believed to further incite violence. He suggested that the world could address this issue by:
“Strengthening national and international legal frameworks to regulate mercenary activities, such as the 1989 International Convention against the Recruitment, Use, Financing and Training of Mercenaries.
Increasing bilateral, regional, and global cooperation, especially in border control where weapons and foreign fighters cross and fuel conflicts. Immigration authorities should maintain records of suspected mercenaries.
Investigating political, economic, social, and psychological factors that contribute to the rise of mercenary activities. Creating more opportunities for youth to reduce their vulnerability to recruitment into mercenary work or extremist activities.
Encouraging political leaders and parties to accept electoral defeat and allow democratic transitions, as lack of opportunities may push youth toward violent means of seizing power. ”
Dear reader, these are today’s reflections on mercenary militias.
What does Mwanakwetu say today?
Indeed, mercenary militias have become a business. Organized groups own and operate these networks, often in collaboration with prominent figures in the arms trade. They exploit the difficult living conditions of young people by recruiting them into such work.
Recent reports indicate that the concept of ‘mercenary agents’ or private military companies has been used in various global conflicts. These agents often act as substitutes for government armies, engaging in resource protection, training, or direct combat.
In some places, these groups appear to be legitimate security companies, yet they actually function as agents of mercenary networks. Upon closer investigation, the lives of these fighters may appear prosperous due to their security roles, while in reality they undertake specialized assignments across different countries for high pay.
There is also a perception that mercenary agents may include influential individuals—celebrities, models, athletes, and major business figures—making them difficult to identify as participants in such activities.
In truth, the world must unite to oppose mercenary forces, and African nations must remain vigilant to prevent the killing of innocent civilians by criminal gangs and mercenary groups with various agendas.
Are you there, Mwanakwetu? Remember:
“Reject the Use of Mercenary Militias.”
Wishing you a good day.
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