Shooting: Kenya hopes to host an African tournament in two years

Sammy Onyango, an International Defence Pistol Association shooter during a training exercise at Kirigiti Shooting Range on Sunday. [Standard Sports]

The future of International Defence Pistol Association (IDPA) shooting in Kenya is bright according to Captain Alex Migwi – the Secretary-General of the National Gun Owners Association.

Captain Migwi made the comments yesterday, the fourth day of intensive IDPA training at Kirigiti Shooting Range under the guidance of South African instructor, Ian Van Der Bank.

IDPA shooting is a sport based on defensive pistol techniques, using real guns including full-charge service ammunition. It is a relatively new sport in the country, but the Kenya team has so far participated in three African Championships in South Africa.

“We are happy with the steps we have made because the training we have undergone, first and foremost on safety, augurs well for the sport in Kenya,” Captain Migwi said.

“When one hears of guns, they think it is a danger. However, we are trying to demystify the sport and make Kenyans understand it is just like any other sport with rules and safety precautions.”

He added: “I am happy to announce that after rigorous training and examination, 26 Kenyans have now been certified as IDPA Safety Officers, which means they are able to conduct the sport in accordance with the highest standards of IDPA safety measures.”

Several players have also been certified to compete at African tournament in South Africa later this month.

“Hopefully, with these certified Safety Officers, we should be able to host an African IDPA tournament by next year or 2021. We would like to thank our government for the support we have received so far especially with the Export/Import permits.”