With more than 1.4 million Private Security Officers (PSOs) stationed across homes, businesses, schools, and public spaces, Kenya’s private security sector is increasingly being acknowledged as a critical player in national safety and emergency response. Yet, despite their frontline presence, many PSOs continue to operate under challenging conditions, often without recognition, proper coordination, or legal protection.
A new call to action is gaining momentum — one that urges government agencies, private sector leaders, and community stakeholders to fully integrate PSOs into Kenya’s formal security framework through legal reforms, structured partnerships, and improved welfare systems.
Private security officers often serve as the first responders during incidents ranging from theft and fire to public disorder. However, many face operational hurdles, including mistrust from the public, inadequate communication tools, poor working conditions, and exclusion from formal national security systems.
“PSOs are the unsung heroes of our day-to-day security operations,” reads a recent sector brief. “But they cannot continue to operate in the shadows. Recognition, regulation, and respect must go hand in hand.”
At the heart of the reform agenda is the full implementation of the Private Security Regulation Act (PSRA) — legislation that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and protections of private guards. The Act aims to professionalize the sector and establish a framework that aligns PSOs with national security goals.
Stakeholders argue that enforcement of the PSRA would create a standard of accountability, offer legal safeguards to guards, and facilitate their involvement in coordinated security operations.
One of the key proposals includes the creation of a formal communication framework between PSOs, the National Police Service, and county enforcement teams. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between these agencies would enable real-time information sharing and joint response efforts.
Equally important are joint training programs focusing on human rights, conflict management, and inter-agency cooperation. These programs would be institutionalized through the National Police Training Academy and further supported by PSRA’s academic curriculum.
Security experts also see an opportunity to export skilled security labor, turning Kenya into a source of professional guards for international markets and creating new revenue streams for the economy.
To enhance crime response, the proposal recommends the formation of local security committees comprising PSOs, police officers, and community representatives. Additionally, the integration of digital surveillance and real-time reporting platforms would strengthen community policing and intelligence gathering.
Public trust, a cornerstone of effective security, could be rebuilt by involving PSOs in civic activities such as clean-up drives, community safety drills, and public forums. Enforcing a strong code of conduct across the private security industry is also seen as vital in projecting professionalism and discipline.
The document also highlights the need for better welfare policies for security officers. These include a fair minimum wage, regular commendations, structured reward systems, and access to protective gear and equipment.
“A motivated officer is an effective officer. We must reward dedication and equip our guards with the tools they need to serve,” the brief emphasizes.
The overarching message is clear: security is a shared responsibility. Private Security Officers are not competitors to state agencies — they are collaborators. They are not strangers to communities — they are protectors embedded in them.
“For Kenya to achieve sustainable safety and stability, partnerships must replace silos. We must invest in those who guard our gates, monitor our malls