UNREC is the only United Nations regional entity specialized in disarmament and non-proliferation in the African region. Its main function is to support Member States in translating decisions, instruments and commitments in the field of disarmament and non-proliferation into action, at national, sub-regional and regional levels.

Due to the specific nature of security issues in Africa, the Centre puts an emphasis on activities linked to the illicit trade of SALW and to support Member States in meeting their disarmament and non-proliferation commitments and obligations. The Centre provides support to African Member States and inter-governmental organizations in these activities It supports States by strengthening their capacity and providing them with the technical, legal and substantive assistance necessary to achieve sustainable peace and security.

The Regional Centre organizes its work around four separate thematic areas: Small Arms and Light Weapons; Conventional Arms; Weapons of Mass Destruction; and Security Sector Reform.