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Kenya National Private Security Workers Union has called on owners of more than 2,000 private security firms to comply with the new Private Security (General) Regulations 2019 or risk de-registration.

Secretary general Isaac Andabwa said the new security law requires owners of security firms to submit audited reports, names of directors and undergo vetting, which is scheduled to kick off on April 1.

He said under the new regulations, security guards will not be allowed to work without a certificate of good conduct, which would be issued after vetting.

“We call on all stakeholders in the sector to supply the Ministry of Interior with the relevant information before April 1, this year since those that will not have complied with the new Private Security (General) Regulations 2019 risk de-registration after Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i gazetted the regulations on July 5 last year,” he said.

Working environment

Andabwa said the move was expected to create professionalism in the private security sector, raise the standard of living and provide conducive working environment for security guards.

He further said the vetting exercise would help get rid of owners of security firms who engage in criminal activities.

“We are aware of some registered security firms that are dealing in the supply of firearms to criminals. We, therefore, need to regulate the industry and stop illegal dealings by private security companies,” he said.

VIP security

Andabwa said the new regulations require that, private guards be trained to operate rapid response vehicles, handle cash on transit and provide security to VIPS.

He said companies must also adhere to the directives on remuneration of guards. 

He said in urban areas such as Mombasa and Kisumu, a private security officer will be expected to earn at least Sh27,993  (night guard) and Sh25,641 (day guard).

Security companies have been accused of exploiting security guards by paying them a pittance compared to what the firms earn from companies that sub-contract their services.