In pictures: Security guards throng Uhuru Park as mass registration begins
The Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) is targeting at least 30,000 private security personnel.
Private security personnel from various firms gathered Saturday at Uhuru Park in Nairobi for the launch of a mass registration that will see them issued with the Guard Force Number (GFN), as part of efforts to streamline the sector.
The Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) has initiated the exercise for bouncers and other security guards, which targets 30,000 individuals, to facilitate the regulation of the private security industry.
More To Read
- Regulator pleads for state intervention as G4S plans to sack 400 workers
- Dangerous job without weapons: Security guards' struggles as anti-state demos turn violent
- PSRA proposes amendment of law to arm security guards in high-risk situations
- Private security firms face deregistration for not paying Sh30,000 minimum wage
The GFN serves as the sole evidence that a private security officer has undergone proper registration and licensing by the authority, in line with the provisions of the Private Security Act.
According to the Private Security Act number 13 of 2016, it is a legal requirement that individuals refrain from engaging in the provision of private security services or offering security services in the country without undergoing the necessary vetting and registration by PSRA.
For decades, the role of a private security officer has been undervalued and often referred to as "watchman," equating to an individual with limited formal education and skills to handle intricate crimes.
However, the evolving nature of modern-day crime has underscored the need for these officers to be adequately trained to play a crucial role in crime detection and prevention, thereby contributing significantly to national security.
Top Stories Today