The International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA)-Africa championship kicked off last Tuesday at the Kirigiti shooting range, in Kiambu County.
The event which began with shooting sessions by chief safety officers continues before taking a break tomorrow for the Easter holidays before it is concluded on Sunday the 9.
This is the second time the continental championship is being hosted in Kenya after the first one in 2021 and is for the first time open to the public.
Antony Wahome, former Chairman National Gun Owners Association (NGAO)-Kenya told KNA that the event was not only going to be a tournament for the competitors but also includes the association Shabaha village which will be open to traders for showcasing of products and services.
“I encourage any member of the public who has ever had any interest in shooting to come, watch and enjoy as we need to demystify shooting as a sport”, he said adding that before it had never been considered but now the government has come in through the Sports Cabinet Secretary to support it.
He expressed optimism saying this year’s tournament will be a game changer and proof that Africa has come of age to be the spotlight for shooting sports in the world.
12 year old Mahir Omar a Compact carry pistol (CCP)master and the youngest among the master’s division and is representing Kenya said that it was great for shooting to be recognized as a sport as it will now gain much recognition in the country and also by enabling such events to be held in the country.
“My goal is to become a champion and a master in all divisions and bring up other youths to join the sport which can only happen through such events,” said Mahir.
NGAO-Kenya has been key in promoting legal and responsible use of firearms which is one of the main grading systems during the tournament.
The event is hosting around 250 shooters from all over the continent and also the USA as contestants in different divisions and categories of the tournament.
Kenya being one of the leading with best tourist destinations has also some of the best shooting ranges.
By Geofred Otieno
