This archive report was first published on 9 August 2019.
Private security service providers have pushed back against critics of the Private Security Regulations Act, 2016, which requires security guards to be provided with guns.
According to Isaac Andabwa, Secretary-General of the Kenya National Private Security Workers Union, the gun issuance matter has been politicized.
However, Andabwa clarified that not all security guards will be armed when the law is implemented, citing the type of assignment as the determining factor.
He noted that simple assignments that do not pose security threats will not require guns, but assignments such as transportation of money or guarding areas with high security threats will require firearms.
Andabwa dismissed the argument that cases of suicide and murder will increase once the firearms are issued, saying proper training will go a long way in preventing misuse of the weapons.
He also emphasized that the law will not see guards displace police as some critics say, adding that proper training is necessary for both police and private security personnel.
On July 9, 2019, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i gazetted new regulations on the operations of firms licensed to offer security services, including the Private Security (General) Regulations, 2019.
The regulations touch on nearly all aspects of the firms' operations, including staff recruitment, pay, training, licensing, handling equipment, and personal safety.
