In a field dominated by men and the deafening crack of rifle fire, a young woman from Kyeleni Ward, Matungulu Sub-county, has emerged as the best of the best.
Jackline Munini was last week crowned the Best Sharpshooter in the Administration Police Service, beating 5,080 recruits during a gruelling competition at the Meru Range.
It is a title reserved for the most precise, the most disciplined, and the most fearless.
"It was a tough competition," Jackline recalls with a calm smile that belies her deadly accuracy.
"There are different ranges – 100 meters, 200 and 300 meters. Those who qualify from 100 meters proceed to 200 and to 300 meters before the winner is picked."
The competition tests mastery of different firearms – long-range rifles, short-range guns and even heavy artillery such as bombs.
"Shooting is not easy. Many people get injured. Others fear to shoot just because of the noise produced. To be a winner is not easy because we compete both men and women. You first go through theory before training to shoot," she said during an interview with Justice Gauge.
Her excellence was undeniable. At the 59th Pass-Out Parade at Embakasi in Nairobi, among 5,080 officers standing in formation, Jackline stood alone.
"I emerged the Best Sharpshooter and was awarded a trophy and a badge which was placed on the right hand of my uniform to show that I am the best. I was the only one given the badge among the 5,080 police officers during the passing-out parade," she says proudly.
Now on a brief break, she is ready for the real assignment – serving citizens with dedication.
A dream forged in loss and persistence
Jackline comes from a family of four. Her father passed away in 2006, leaving a void that made life harder but her resolve stronger.
"I had a passion for this job since I finished high school. I tried to join the disciplined forces several times. I tried the army, tried Kenya Prisons, again tried army recruitment without success before finally being recruited by the Administration Police," she narrates.
Even after recruitment, the journey nearly broke her.
"This course is not easy. Some die while others get injured. I broke my leg in January and stayed in plaster for four months but I had to continue and eventually finished my course well."
From a plastered leg in January to lifting a national trophy months later, Jackline Munini's story is not just about shooting straight. It is about never missing your target in life.
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