KENYA MISSION REPORT

06/03/2023
Report

Promoting the Private Security Industry International Standards in Kenya

 

 Background of the Roundtable Discussion

Usalama Reforms Forum and the International Code of Conduct Association (ICoCA) organised a roundtable discussion regarding International Frameworks on Private Security Governance in Kenya which took place on Tuesday, 28 February 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya. This one-day event was attended by 20 participants from the Kenyan National Police Service’s Internal Affairs Unit (IAU), Embassy of Switzerland in Nairobi, ICoCA, Private Security Companies (PSCs), Security and Safety Associations, Residents Associations, Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) working within the security governance sector, and subject matter experts.

Purpose of the Roundtable Discussion

The objective of a roundtable discussion on the International Frameworks on Private Security Governance in Kenya was to facilitate an exchange of ideas, perspectives, and experiences among stakeholders and experts in the field of private security governance. The discussion aimed to:

  • Increase awareness and understanding of the current international frameworks and standards related to private security governance, such as the Montreux Document and the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Providers (“the Code”).
  • Discuss emerging trends and challenges in the private security industry, such as the increasing use of technology and the impact of private security on human rights and democracy.
  • Discuss the existing oversight and accountability mechanisms within the private security sector in Kenya while identifying their strengths and weaknesses.
  • Explore opportunities for collaboration and cooperation among stakeholders, including governments, CSOs, PSCs, and international organisations, with the objective of promoting accountable private security practices and ensuring respect for human rights and the rule of law.
  • Kickstart the process of advocating for the government of Kenya to become a signatory to the International Frameworks on Private Security Governance.

This roundtable discussion provided a structured platform for stakeholders within the sector to engage on international frameworks and provide recommendations to better the operations of PSCs operating in Kenya. The discussions enabled participants to identify areas within the sector that require improvement and develop recommendations to address them. These recommendations are key in making informed decisions regarding the adoption and implementation of these frameworks through a multi-stakeholder approach. 

Recommendations and Next Steps

  • Develop clear policies and procedures that align with international frameworks, such as the Montreux Document and the Code and respect for respect human rights.
  • Make International Frameworks such as the Code and other instruments on private security governance more accessible for sensitisation of the PSCs and other stakeholders, to facilitate advocacy for the stakeholders in the private security sector.
  • There is a need for better sensitisation of the private security officers and other stakeholders on Private Security Regulations Act 2016.
  • Need for better sensitisation of CSOs and the media on private security governance and emerging issues affecting the industry in Kenya.