Owning a firearm in Kenya is a privilege regulated under the Firearms Act to ensure responsible ownership and public safety. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the process of acquiring a gun license in Kenya, including the eligibility criteria, associated costs, and reasons that could lead to the revocation of the license.
Cost of Owning a Gun in Kenya
The price of legally acquiring a firearm in Kenya is significant.
- Handguns: Range between Ksh 100,000 – Ksh 300,000
- Shotguns: Cost between Ksh 160,000 – Ksh 350,000
These prices reflect the controlled market for firearms, ensuring only qualified individuals can afford and own them.
Eligibility Requirements for Gun Ownership in Kenya
To be eligible to own a firearm in Kenya, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum Age: Must be at least 21 years old.
- Training: Must demonstrate competence in firearm handling through proper training.
- Clean Record: Should have a clear criminal record and stable mental health.
- Background Checks: The applicant must undergo comprehensive vetting by security agencies.
Step-by-Step Process for Acquiring a Gun License in Kenya
- Application Submission
- Submit an application for a firearms certificate to a licensing officer at the Firearms Bureau in Nairobi.
- Filling Out Application Forms
- Obtain and fill the application forms from the Chief Licensing Officer.
- Certificate of Good Conduct
- Visit the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to have your fingerprints taken and get a Certificate of Good Conduct.
- Police Station Submission
- Submit the completed application form at your local police station. Pay an application fee of Ksh 2,000, and the application will be forwarded for vetting by the National Intelligence Service (NIS).
- Firearm Licensing Board Vetting
- Undergo vetting by the Firearm Licensing Board to determine your suitability.
- Approval by Inspector General of Police
- If the Firearm Licensing Board approves the application, it is forwarded to the Inspector General of Police for final approval.
- The Inspector General may approve or reject the application.
- License Issuance
- Upon approval, the Chief Licensing Officer will issue the license.
- Renewal
- Licensed gun owners must renew their firearm licenses annually by paying a renewal fee.
Reasons for Disqualification or License Revocation
Disqualification Grounds
- Temperamental Behavior: Individuals with aggressive or unpredictable behavior may be deemed unsuitable.
- Unsafe Storage: Inability to guarantee the safe storage of the firearm.
- Mental Instability: Individuals with a history of mental illness will be disqualified.
License Revocation Reasons
Even after obtaining a license, the Firearms Licensing Board or law enforcement may revoke it for the following reasons:
- Gun Misuse: Using the firearm recklessly, whether under the influence of alcohol or sober.
- Tampering with Serial Numbers: Altering or removing the firearm’s serial number is illegal.
- Careless Storage: Failing to store the gun securely, leading to loss or theft.
Firearm Licensing Contacts and Locations
Firearms Licensing Board
- Location: Migwani Road, Nairobi
- Phone: 020 2000219
DCI Headquarters
- Location: Mazingira Complex, Kiambu Road (opposite Kenya Forest Service Headquarters, Karura)
- Phone: 020 3343312 / 020 7202000
Challenges in Acquiring a Firearm License
The process of getting a firearm license in Kenya is rigorous to ensure that only individuals with the right temperament and responsibility own firearms. Security agencies, such as the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and Firearms Licensing Board, carry out intensive vetting to prevent misuse and ensure public safety. Even after obtaining a license, maintaining compliance through annual renewals and responsible firearm management is essential to keep the license valid.
Acquiring a firearm license in Kenya is a stringent process, reflecting the government’s strict firearm control measures. For those seeking to own a firearm, adherence to the application guidelines and legal regulations is critical. Misuse or carelessness with a firearm not only risks license revocation but also attracts legal penalties.
If you are considering applying for a gun license, ensure you understand the responsibility involved and comply with the vetting requirements. Owning a firearm is more than a privilege; it demands responsibility, discipline, and vigilance.
