This archive report was first published on 9 June 2020.
From Humble Beginnings to Security Pioneer ¶
Irene Makena, a determined entrepreneur in her 30s, has built a thriving security business, Pelt Security Services, which now operates in 42 counties across Kenya.
With a background in hospitality and public relations, Makena drew on her management skills and passion for equal opportunities to launch her company in 2012, starting with just Sh36,000 in savings.
Today, Pelt Security Services employs hundreds of staff and offers a range of services, including guarding, VIP protection, and CCTV camera installation.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges, with delayed payments, downsizing, and premature contract terminations affecting some clients.
Despite these hurdles, Makena remains committed to her business and has taken measures to protect her staff, including equipping them with personal protective equipment and training them on safety protocols.
As a mother of two, Makena has also had to adapt to the new reality, finding ways to keep her children safe and explaining the importance of precautions to them.
With a strong network of contacts and a determination to succeed, Makena has overcome numerous challenges, including finding skilled staff and navigating the complexities of taxation.
As she looks to the future, Makena offers words of encouragement to women considering entering male-dominated industries, urging them to take the lead and not be intimidated by competition.
