Kenya's security guards decry exploitation, demand Sh30,000 minimum wage enforcement
By Maureen Kinyanjui |
In June, the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) warned of closing companies that fail to comply with wage regulations.
The Private Security Guards Union (PSGU) has urged the government to enforce the Sh30,000 minimum wage for security officers, citing widespread exploitation by private security firms.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, PSGU Secretary General Isaac Andabwa criticised non-compliant security firms for profiting at the expense of guards who continue to endure poor wages and harsh working conditions.
Keep reading
"Private security officers have families, they have basic needs. The situation of private security in the absence of a minimum wage is worse," he stated.
The union accused firms of ignoring repeated notices to adhere to the Minimum Wage Act, leaving guards struggling to make ends meet.
Andabwa highlighted the contradiction between President William Ruto's Bottom-Up Economic Agenda and the lack of action on wage implementation.
"Why should we have laws that do not protect the intended class? Why should we have a regulator, yet people are still suffering? What is the purpose for which we fought for the regulation?" Andabwa questioned.
In June, the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) warned of closing companies that fail to comply with wage regulations.
However, Andabwa criticised the government for what he termed as lax enforcement of these rules, despite approving the wage regulation earlier.
"We want to appeal to President William Ruto, and in particular the newly appointed Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, to listen to the private security officers who have suffered for decades," he added.
PSRA had earlier announced plans to shut down firms that did not submit signed commitments to pay the Sh30,000 minimum wage, but the union insists enforcement remains inadequate.
The PSGU's appeal sheds light on the ongoing struggles of Kenya's private security guards, with the union demanding immediate government action to address their plight.
Reader comments
Follow Us and Stay Connected!
We'd love for you to join our community and stay updated with our latest stories and updates. Follow us on our social media channels and be part of the conversation!
Let's stay connected and keep the dialogue going!
Latest News For You
