PSIA Boss Calls for Better Recognition, Welfare for Private Security Officers

-
• Cosmas Mutava Calls for Better Recognition, Welfare, and Collaboration for Guards in Community-Led Security Efforts

Nairobi, June 8, 2025 – The chairman of the Protective Security Industry Association (PSIA), Cosmas Mutava, has urged the government and the public to recognize the critical role played by Private Security Officers (PSOs) in Kenya’s safety infrastructure.

Speaking during the launch of the Usalama Mtaani programme at August 7th Memorial Park, Mutava emphasized that the over 1.4 million PSOs stationed across homes, businesses, and public spaces are often the first responders in emergencies, yet their contributions remain underappreciated.

The event, organised by the Kenya Alliance of Resident Associations (KARA), brought together security stakeholders, community leaders, and residents to champion community-led security solutions.

Challenges

Mutava highlighted the struggles PSOs face, including lack of recognition by state agencies, mistrust from communities, poor communication systems, and inadequate legal protections.

“These gaps not only undermine their effectiveness but also weaken Kenya’s broader security framework,” he said.

Full Implementation of PSRA

To address these challenges, Mutava called for full enforcement of the Private Security Regulation Act (PSRA), which outlines the rights, responsibilities, and protections of guards. He stressed that the law should guide professionalism, accountability, and integration of PSOs into national security strategies.

Coordination and Training

The PSIA chairman proposed a formal communication framework between PSOs, the National Police Service, and county enforcement teams through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

He also advocated for joint training programs focusing on human rights, conflict resolution, and inter-agency collaboration, to be facilitated by the Police Training Academy and PSRA’s academic initiatives.

“Kenya can even export skilled security labor, boosting foreign income and creating global job opportunities for our officers,” he added.

Community Engagement

Mutava urged PSOs to actively participate in community initiatives such as clean-ups, safety drills, and town hall meetings to rebuild public trust.

Additionally, he emphasized the need for better welfare, including fair wages, structured rewards, regular commendations, and access to proper gear. “Improving guards’ morale is essential for better service delivery,” he said.

Collective Responsibility

In his closing remarks, Mutava reiterated that security is a shared duty. “PSOs are not rivals to state security but partners. They are not strangers to communities but trusted protectors,” he said.

He called for unity among state agencies, private firms, and citizens, urging, “See something, say something—together.”

The Usalama Mtaani initiative is expected to strengthen grassroots security partnerships, leveraging PSOs as key players in creating a safer Kenya.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

KNPSWU SG Isaac Andabwa Accused of Mismanagement and Neglect in Whistleblower Exposé

-
Image
Nairobi, Kenya, November 29, 2024 – The Kenya National Private Security Workers Union (KNPSWU) and its General Secretary, Isaac G.M. Andabwa, are at the center of controversy following allegations of mismanagement, corruption, and failure to represent the rights of private security officers. A whistleblower, claiming to be a shop steward under the union’s umbrella, has leveled serious accusations against Andabwa’s leadership. The allegations, brought to light through a detailed statement sent to activist Cyprian Nyakundi, paint a picture of a union in disarray, marked by poor governance, financial mismanagement, and neglect of its core mandate. Leadership and Mismanagement The whistleblower accused Andabwa of running the union with a "micromanaging leadership style" that has failed to address the pressing issues faced by private security officers, including poor working conditions, inadequate pay, and lack of representation. Instead, Andabwa is accused of relying ...
Read more

Nairobi Central MCA John Mwaniki Champions CBD Transformation to Attract Global Investors

-
Image
Nairobi Central MCA John Mwaniki has called on building owners within the Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) to take bold steps in elevating the city’s status by repainting their premises, installing Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems, and adopting aesthetically pleasing decorations and signage.  These measures, he asserts, are vital in transforming Nairobi into a clean, orderly, and visually appealing world-class city that attracts investors and tourists alike. In support of this initiative, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has endorsed the MCA's proposals, aligning them with his broader vision for a more secure, vibrant, and investor-friendly capital. "The time to make Nairobi shine on the global stage is now," said MCA Mwaniki. "I urge building owners to ensure their properties are repainted, well-decorated, and that all names and signage are uniform and appealing. This will not only enhance the city's image but also foster pride among re...
Read more

WASWAK and KEWI Celebrate Certification of Water Operators Poised to Revolutionize Kenya’s Water Management

-
Image
By Grace Mwende  In a significant step for Kenya’s water management, forty water treatment operators have been officially certified after completing an extensive training and international certification program. The certification ceremony, organized by the Water Sector Workers Association of Kenya (WASWAK) in collaboration with the KEWI Alumni Association, Water Professionals International, and Gamechangers Inc, celebrated the accomplishments of these professionals, who are now equipped to enhance water management and service delivery across the nation. Speakers at the event emphasized the critical role these certified operators will play in the future of Kenya's water systems. “You now stand as certified professionals, ready to make a substantial impact in the sector,” one speaker noted, acknowledging the graduates’ dedication and passion for water conservation and management. This certification is seen as a major step forward in creating a more sustainable water futur...
Read more