Owning a gun in Kenya is a luxury and a privilege for the lucky ones who meet the requirements. Citizens can own a gun for either personal protection or sporting activities.

There is no law defining the number of firearms a person should own but only one gun is allowed for personal safety purposes.

Additionally, only specific types of firearms can be issued to civilians. For example, civilians cannot be given firearms used by security organs such as Ak47, MP5, and G3.

Anyone looking to own a gun will part ways with between Sh100, 000 and Sh350, 000 depending on the type.

Below is the procedure for legally owning a gun in Kenya:

Requirements to become a gun holder in Kenya:

• Be 21 years old and above
• Must be trained in handling firearms
• Should be mentally stable and of sane mind

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How to apply for a gun

One must make an application to the officer in charge of licensing firearms and then fill in application forms from the Chief Licensing Officer at the firearms office, in Nairobi.

A certificate of good conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) is required, after which an applicant submits an application form at a nearby police station at a fee of Sh2000.

The applicant will then undergo vetting by the National Intelligence Service (NIS) and be vetted again by the Firearms Licensing Board (FLB).

Once the board approves the application, the applicant’s name is sent to the Inspector General of Police who again approve or reject the application.

If the application succeeds, FLB issues the applicant with a license which is renewable annually.

Firearm licensing costs

The licensing process involves rigorous vetting, background checks, and an assessment of the applicant’s need for a firearm.

Application fees vary depending on the type of firearm. A rifle or shotgun permit costs Sh2,000, while a pistol or revolver permit costs Sh5,000. The fee for a fishing gun is also Sh2,000, and an injection gun for industrial use costs Sh1,500.

The annual firearm permit renewal fee is Sh5,000.