Pastor Dorcas Gachagua has surprised Kenyans after showcasing an unexpected talent during a visit to a shooting range in Spokane, Washington, in the United States.
The former Second Lady was captured confidently handling a handgun and firing several rounds at a target, with footage of the experience quickly attracting attention on social media.
The video was shared by the Democratic Change Party (DCP) on X on Friday, September 4, alongside the caption:
“Mama Boys Rev Dorcas participating in a shooting range in Spokane, USA.”
Dorcas displays confidence at shooting range
In the footage, Dorcas Gachagua is seen standing at an outdoor shooting range while wearing protective glasses and ear defenders.
Dressed in a maroon cap and flowered top, she maintained a steady stance as she aimed at the target and fired several rounds.
Her composure while handling the firearm caught the attention of social media users, particularly because many Kenyans primarily associate her with her pastoral work, advocacy and public engagements.
The footage showed her taking the activity seriously, with the former Second Lady appearing comfortable despite the recoil of the handgun.
The unexpected display prompted a stream of reactions, with some social media users jokingly describing Dorcas as a sharpshooter.
One user wrote:
“Pastor Dorcas Gachagua is a sharpshooter.”
Another reacted:
“So, you’re telling me that Dorcas Rigathi is not only a pastor but also a skilled shooter?”
Others viewed the outing more casually, with one follower describing it as evidence of a family enjoying quality time together.
Dorcas’ life beyond politics
Dorcas has remained a prominent public figure even after leaving the Office of the Spouse of the Deputy President.
She served as Kenya’s Second Lady from September 2022 until October 2024, when her husband, Rigathi Gachagua, was removed from office following his impeachment as Deputy President.
During her time in the public office, Dorcas championed programmes focused on the boy child, widows, orphans, people living with disabilities and rehabilitation of people struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.
Her advocacy for widows was particularly personal. In 2024, she launched the Safari ya Mjane initiative, explaining that losing her father at a young age and experiencing hardship as a family influenced her desire to support widows.
From humble beginnings to national prominence
Dorcas’ public profile is also shaped by her remarkable personal journey.
She has previously spoken about growing up in difficult circumstances in Kiandutu, Thika, after the death of her father.
Her family reportedly experienced severe financial hardship, forcing Dorcas and her siblings to undertake menial work to support their mother.
She later pursued higher education at Kenyatta University and built a career in banking before becoming known nationally through her pastoral ministry and later public service.
Her journey from a difficult childhood to becoming one of Kenya’s most recognisable clergywomen and public figures has continued to attract interest.
Her life with Rigathi Gachagua
Dorcas has also remained a visible figure alongside her husband, particularly following Gachagua’s formation of the Democratic Change Party.
In recent years, she has occasionally offered glimpses into their private life, including their farming activities.
In May 2025, she showcased their expansive farm and spoke about having more time to engage in farming after leaving government.
She revealed that she could spend several hours at the farm tending to their animals and other activities.
Her latest appearance at the shooting range therefore offers another glimpse into the less-public side of her life.
While Dorcas Gachagua is widely recognised as a pastor and advocate for vulnerable groups, her Spokane outing demonstrated a different side of her personality, and social media users were clearly intrigued by the unexpected display of confidence and marksmanship.
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