Why stimulus package would be timely for the private security sector

The coronavirus pandemic is causing an extraordinary degree of economic disruption, from local communities to global supply chains. Notably, not a single sector in Kenya operates without the leverage of private security industry. Crises have a way of reminding us of the essential nature of some services in society – such as private security.

COVID-19 is affecting all dimensions of the security sector and brings with it particular challenges for private security. The increased new roles bring with them significant concerns regarding training, vetting and oversight. Looking at the adaptations that COVID-19 requires from private security players, cooperation at the national and regional levels should be strengthened. There is a myriad regulatory challenges and questions linked to COVID-19. The pandemic has not only fundamentally changed the private security industry and its regulation, it has exacerbated existing challenges and gaps notably in regard to training of staff, staff working conditions, and digital work processes.