The Kenya Private Security Workers Union (KPSWU) has called on the government to revoke licenses of private security firms that continue to defy regulations set by the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA).
In a statement issued on Friday, October 10, KPSWU Secretary General Isaac Andabwa decried the increasing non-compliance among private firms, saying the move has frustrated guards and derailed efforts to professionalize the sector.
Andabwa noted that despite the government’s gazetted reforms including a 6 per cent minimum wage increment and the introduction of the guard force number many firms have deliberately refused to implement them. He accused some companies of exploiting workers while hiding behind government licenses.
“The new leadership of PSRA, particularly the CEO and the Board, must revisit their mandate. You cannot be licensing thieves in this industry,” said Andabwa. “Licensing people who are not complying with government guidelines tarnishes the regulator’s image.”
The union boss emphasized that only firms operating within the law and adhering to government policies should be allowed to continue business. He warned that cartels and unscrupulous investors were dragging down the industry’s reputation and workers’ welfare.
KPSWU has been vocal on the issue of fair pay. In February 2025, the union urged the government to shut down non-compliant companies that failed to pay guards the minimum wage as per the Labour Institutions Act, Cap 234.
According to the gazette notice issued in October 2024, unskilled workers were entitled to a minimum wage of Ksh7,997 per month, while night watchmen in cities were to earn Ksh16,959 monthly. Those in municipalities such as Mavoko, Ruiru, and Limuru were to receive Ksh15,722, with others earning Ksh9,672.
Andabwa insisted that firms unwilling to comply with these wage standards should lose their operating licenses to safeguard workers’ rights and restore integrity in the security industry.
