This archive report was first published on 7 October 2019.
As the world grapples with evolving security threats, the role of private security providers in homeland security has become increasingly important. This was underscored by a recent high-level conference in Nairobi, where private security luminaries and stakeholders gathered to discuss the industry's growing contribution to national security.
The Private Security Regulation Act 2016 and the Private Security (General) Regulations 2017 have formalized the collaboration between national security organs and private security providers. The Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) is responsible for regulating the industry, with the Protective and Safety Association of Kenya (Prosak) ensuring professionalism in corporate security.
However, the industry has its challenges. The lucrative nature of private security has attracted players with dubious credentials, and training is not standardized across the industry. To address these issues, proper vetting and standardization are necessary to ensure that only qualified, registered, licensed, and accredited players operate in the industry.
As the National Police Service undergoes reforms, some non-core policing duties will be left to private security providers. A close working relationship between national security organs and private security managers and leaders is critical in responding to emergencies. The PSRA should engage with all stakeholders to entrench professionalism and nurture public-private collaborative initiatives.
Mr. Mwangi, a law enforcement and security management consultant, is lead partner at Edge Trainers & Consultants.
