“Private Security Officers Are Pillar of National Security, Deserve Better Pay and Respect” – President Ruto
STATE HOUSE, Nairobi-President William Ruto has announced sweeping government reforms to improve the welfare, training, and professional recognition of private security officers, terming them an indispensable pillar of Kenya’s national security and economic productivity.
Speaking when he hosted representatives of private security officers at State House on Thursday, July 6, 2026, the President said the government will discard colonial-era language and fully integrate private officers into the country’s security architecture.
According to President Ruto, the terms ‘watchman’ and ‘guards’ are a colonial relic and must be discarded.
“From today, all government documents will refer to them as Private Security Officers to accord them the respect they deserve,” he said.
To drive the reforms, the President established a 60-Day Multi-Agency Taskforce comprising the Ministries of Interior and Labour, the Private Security Regulatory Authority – PSRA, the National Police Service, and the private security industry.
The taskforce has 60 days to deliver a clear framework on improving officers’ welfare, including pay, working conditions, and career progression.
“We will immediately ensure that private security companies implement the minimum wage as stipulated by law,” Ruto directed.
The government will also harmonize and strengthen training standards and provide clear pathways for career progression.
A new framework will be established to enable the National Police Service and private security officers to work seamlessly in securing every part of the country.
President Ruto credited PSRA for progress made so far in building “a private security industry that is professional, accountable and respected.”
Government officials emphasized that private security officers are no longer a peripheral service, but central to national safety.
Interior PS Dr. Raymond Omollo said: “In Nairobi alone, tens of thousands of private security officers provide round-the-clock protection in residential estates, businesses, public institutions and commercial centres. They make a significant contribution to the safety, stability and economic vitality of the nation’s capital.”
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi added: “Many families sleep peacefully because of the dedication of private security officers. Homes and businesses are protected, which in fact sustains livelihoods. We therefore salute this sector of patriotic Kenyans.”
President Ruto noted that private security officers protect homes, schools, hospitals, factories, farms and places of worship.
“Due to this critical role, they deserve better pay, decent working conditions and greater respect for the vital role they play in protecting lives, businesses and public institutions,” he said.
KEPSA Security Sector Board Chair Annette Kimitei noted: “If we want to grow the private security sector we must invest in training on emergent issues. AI, for example, will not take our jobs but the people who use AI will.”
This State House engagement marks the first major meeting of its kind between the Head of State and private security officers, signaling a new chapter of recognition and partnership.
