The Kenyan government, through the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA), has issued a stern warning to event organizers and entertainment joints ahead of the Christmas and New Year celebrations. The warning comes as the festive season kicks off and private security becomes a critical factor in ensuring public safety and order. The PSRA’s caution highlights the importance of compliance with the law when engaging private security companies, including bouncers, crowd control personnel, and event stewards.
Philip Okello, the acting CEO of the PSRA, emphasized that event organizers, promoters, planners, entertainment venues, and recreational and sporting establishments must ensure their private security companies and personnel adhere to the law. The authority has directed that all personnel involved in event security must possess a valid five-year certificate of registration from the PSRA. This certification is not only a prerequisite but also serves as proof that the personnel have undergone necessary security assessments and have the requisite training to manage events safely.
The PSRA also requires private security personnel to have a specific certification known as event security preparedness certification. This certification is essential as it signifies that a particular event, festival, concert, or entertainment venue has been thoroughly evaluated for security risks and meets the necessary emergency preparedness requirements. According to Okello, this is the “only proof” that the security measures for the event are adequate and legally compliant. The certification ensures that event organizers are prepared to handle emergencies and maintain order during high-profile gatherings.
The PSRA has been clear about the legal repercussions of engaging private security personnel who are not registered and licensed according to the Private Security Regulation Act. “No person shall engage in the provision of private security services or offer private security services in Kenya at a fee unless that person has been security vetted, registered, and licensed by the PSRA in accordance with the Act,” Okello stated in a recent statement. He warned that failing to adhere to these regulations constitutes an offense punishable by both fine and imprisonment.
The message from the PSRA is unambiguous strict compliance with the law is necessary to avoid individual and corporate criminal culpability and sanctions. This includes not only ensuring that security personnel are vetted and licensed but also that they possess the requisite training and certification to handle the specific demands of event security. This move is seen as a measure to curb incidents of violence, theft, and disorder that can disrupt public events, particularly during peak periods like Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The PSRA’s directive underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining order and safety at entertainment venues, especially during times of high activity such as the festive season. The authority’s role is to regulate and oversee the private security industry in Kenya, ensuring that it meets the highest standards of professionalism and compliance. By requiring event organizers to work with certified security personnel, the PSRA aims to mitigate risks associated with private security, which has been linked to a series of incidents in the past, including misuse of force and inadequate crowd control measures.
Event organizers are advised to engage only with private security companies that are compliant with the PSRA’s standards. This includes having the necessary certifications and being well-prepared to handle potential emergencies. Okello’s statement highlights the need for vigilance and adherence to the law to ensure that events are not only successful but also safe for all attendees.
As the festive season approaches, the government’s warning serves as a timely reminder for event organizers to be diligent in their security planning. The PSRA’s guidelines are designed to prevent incidents that can harm individuals or damage public trust in event safety. By ensuring compliance with the law, organizers can not only avoid legal trouble but also contribute to a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. The Private Security Regulatory Authority’s message is clear: adherence to the law is essential for a secure festive season.
