It’s interesting to note the recent directive from the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) regarding the minimum wage for security guards in Kenya. This move appears to be a significant step towards ensuring fair compensation for those in the private security sector.
The directive emphasizes the importance of private security firms committing to paying security guards a minimum wage, with the threat of registration and licensing review for non-compliance. The attached legal commitment, requiring monthly salary disbursement and accurate record-keeping, underscores the seriousness of adhering to the government-set minimum wage.
The seven-day window given to security companies to submit the signed commitment highlights the urgency and determination behind this initiative. The potential legal consequences for non-compliance, including fines, penalties, and license cancellation, add weight to the directive and aim to create a more accountable and fair system.
It’s notable that this directive comes on the heels of lobbying efforts by groups like the Professional Association of Licensed Private Security Services Providers of Kenya (PALSAK), advocating for increased salaries for security guards. The disparity between the proposed minimum wage and the current average pay mentioned by PALSAK reflects the challenges faced by those working in the industry.
PALSAK’s argument regarding the stagnant salaries over the past 25 years in the face of a rising cost of living sheds light on the broader issues within the private security sector. The call for industry players to unite in advocating for fair compensation resonates, pointing towards the need for a collective effort to address the economic challenges faced by security guards.
The mention of Interior CS Kithure Kindiki’s involvement in launching the nationwide registration of security guards in August 2023 adds a layer of context to the government’s ongoing efforts to regulate and improve conditions within the private security sector.
This development has the potential to positively impact the lives of security guards by addressing long-standing issues related to their remuneration. It also raises awareness about the broader challenges faced by essential workers, emphasizing the importance of fair wages and working conditions across various sectors.
As this story unfolds, it will be interesting to see how private security companies respond to the directive, and whether this move will mark a positive turning point for the welfare of security guards in Kenya.