Garda World briefings. Photo | courtesy.
Private security firm Gardaworld has announced plans to ramp up its operations in Kenya following its acquisition of KK Security, a company that has recently faced financial and operational difficulties.
The move, approved by the Competition Authority of Kenya earlier, marks a significant step for Gardaworld in solidifying its presence in East Africa’s growing security market.
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Speaking in Nairobi, Gardaworld’s Kenya Country Manager Rishi Ahluwalia said the acquisition is part of a wider strategic plan aimed at diversifying the firm’s service offerings.
These include emergency response, catering services, VIP protection, and guard training programs.
“So, it is true that we’ve had to make some difficult decisions in the recent past, not just ourselves, but across the industry and I’d even say across the economy,” said Ahluwalia.
“But the focus now is on growth, building new capabilities, and expanding our service lines. This also means growing our team and creating more opportunities.”
Ahluwalia confirmed that Gardaworld has fully complied with a High Court directive issued in February mandating private security firms to enforce a minimum wage of Sh30,000 for guards.
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The directive followed a legal move by the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) to compel companies to meet the new pay standards.
Under the revised structure by PSRA, the new minimum wage includes a base salary of Sh18,994, a house allowance of Sh2,849.11, and an overtime allowance of Sh8,156.81.
Statutory deductions include Sh1,080 for NSSF, Sh825 for SHIF, Sh1,229.75 for PAYE, and Sh450 for the affordable housing levy.
Previously, security guards in former municipalities earned a minimum of Sh15,722 per month, while those in other regions took home as little as Sh9,672.
“We engage closely with the PSRA and prioritize compliance whether with ISO standards, employment laws, or regulatory directives.”
