This archive report was first published on 7 December 2019.
Private security firms have become a crucial component of Kenya's security system, but their operations have not been thoroughly vetted. This lack of oversight has led to concerns about the competence of their guards, who often lack proper training and knowledge of English and Kiswahili.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has been pushing for the transformation of private security firms to create order and ensure they operate to high standards. To achieve this, the government has launched a training curriculum for private security guards, which is a step in the right direction.
However, the audit of security firms, as directed by Dr Matiang'i, should go beyond checking if they pay taxes and statutory fees. It should also assess their services, professional standards, and innovation to ensure only qualified and competent firms are authorized to operate.
Moreover, private security firms should prioritize proper labour practices, including paying guards well and providing them with safety gadgets. Many security firms underpay guards, leaving them vulnerable and easily corruptible, which undermines security.
As the government plans to equip security guards with guns, it is essential to ensure they receive proper training and vetting to weed out quacks. This is a critical step in maintaining national security and upholding the standards of private security firms.
