By GASTONE VALUSI
In a field dominated by men and punctuated by the 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 after beating 5,080 recruits in a gruelling competition at the Meru Range.
The title is reserved for officers who demonstrate exceptional precision, discipline and composure.
“It was a tough competition,” Jackline recalls with a calm smile. “There are different ranges — 100 metres, 200 metres and 300 metres. Those who qualify at 100 metres proceed to 200 and then 300 metres, where the winner is picked.”
The competition tests officers’ mastery of different firearms, including long-range rifles, short-range guns and other weapons.
“Shooting is not easy. Many people get injured. Others fear to shoot because of the noise. To be a winner is not easy because we compete, both men and women. You first go through theory before training to shoot,” she says.
Her performance earned her top honours at the 59th Pass-Out Parade at Embakasi, where 5,080 officers graduated.
“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 who passed out,” she says proudly.
Now on a brief break, Jackline is preparing to begin her new assignment, determined to serve citizens with dedication.
A Dream Forged In Loss
Jackline comes from a family of four. Her father died in 2006, leaving the family facing difficult circumstances but strengthening her resolve to pursue her dream.
“I had a passion for this job since I finished high school. I tried to join the forces several times. I tried the army, tried Kenya Prisons and again tried army recruitment without success before finally being recruited by the Administration Police,” she says.
Even after joining the service, her journey was far from easy.
“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,” she says.
From a broken leg and months in plaster to lifting a national trophy, Jackline Munini’s story goes beyond becoming a skilled sharpshooter.
It is a story of persistence, resilience and determination to keep pursuing a target despite the obstacles along the way.
