Kenya recently observed the solemn tenth anniversary of the devastating Westgate shopping mall attack in Westlands, a somber event that also served to recognize the invaluable contribution of private security officers. This four-day ordeal, which claimed the lives of at least 67 individuals and left hundreds wounded, stands as a stark reminder of the nation’s vulnerability to terrorism.
During the commemorative ceremony, prominent figures from the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) gathered to emphasize the urgent need for a collaborative and resolute approach to counteract the menace of terrorism, not only for Kenya but also for its neighboring nations.
The Director General of the PSRA, Fazul Mahammed, asserted that terrorism transcends religious boundaries, underscoring that it is an issue that affects people irrespective of their tribe, religion, race, or color.
Isaac Andabwa, the National General Secretary of the Kenya National Private Security Workers Union (KNPSWU), expressed his appreciation for the government’s recognition of private security guards through the Ministry of Interior. He also called upon the nation’s leadership to harness the potential of the over one million private security officers, who have often been marginalized in the battle against insecurity.
In a groundbreaking move, the government has incorporated private guards into its national counterterrorism strategy, outlining a comprehensive framework through the PSRA to instigate the essential sectoral reforms required to enhance professionalism within the industry.
The PSRA Directors affirmed their commitment to spearhead these reforms, focusing on initiatives such as professional training, ranking, and accreditation to establish a progressive career path for private security officers. In an atmosphere charged with prayer and reflection, stakeholders united in their appeal for resilience, unity, and peace among all Kenyan citizens.
The event also saw the presence of key industry figures, including Jeremy Van Tongaren, Chairman of the Kenya Security Industry Association (KSIA); Andrew Solomon, Managing Director of Radar Security Company; Joash Soita, National Organizing Secretary of KNSPWU; Lawrence Okello, Managing Director of G4S Security Company; and Jackson Mbuthia, General Manager of Security Group Africa Company.
Together, they symbolize the collective determination to ensure the safety and security of the nation as Kenya marks a decade since the tragic Westgate Attack.
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