Guns and the law: penalties, holder duties and appeals
Firearms Act · sources read 2 Oct 2026
Having a gun or ammunition without a valid firearm certificate is an offence carrying 5 to 10 years in jail, or 7 to 15 years for a prohibited weapon. Licensed holders must keep guns securely, show their certificate to police on demand, and report a lost or stolen gun as soon as possible.
- Deadline
- Appeal within 14 days of first getting notice of the decision
- Where
- Report losses at the nearest police station; appeals go to the Cabinet Secretary
Steps
- Keep your gun and ammunition securely, in safe custody and in a safe condition, at all times.
- If a police, customs or licensing officer asks, show your firearm certificate or permit.
- If your gun or ammunition is lost, stolen or destroyed, report it as soon as possible to the officer in charge of the nearest police station.
- If your certificate is refused, not renewed or revoked, you can appeal to the Cabinet Secretary, whose decision is final.
Watch out
- Breaking the safe-keeping or loss-reporting duties can mean up to 1 year in jail, a fine of up to KSh 10,000, or both.
- Failing to show your certificate when asked can mean a fine of up to KSh 10,000.
- Ammunition alone counts: having bullets without a valid certificate is the same offence as having the gun.
Who this covers
- Anyone who buys, acquires or has a firearm or ammunition
- Licensed firearm holders, for the safe-keeping and reporting duties
Official sources (1)
- Firearms Act (Cap. 114) new.kenyalaw.org · read 2 Oct 2026