Security firm G4S Kenya has raised concerns over the inconsistent enforcement of labour laws in the private security sector, saying it leaves many guards underpaid and creates an uneven business environment.
The company warns that hundreds of thousands of security personnel are trapped in low-wage jobs while some firms flout rules on salaries, housing, and overtime.
Laurence Okelo, G4S Kenya’s chief executive, described the sector as fragmented and poorly monitored.
“From a policy perspective, we would like to see better clarity on terms and conditions [of employment]. I think there could be enhanced enforcement…because it’s not just pay; it is pay, house allowance, overtime, and working hours,” he said. “If there was complete clarity for all stakeholders, it would create a level playing field and ensure that guards receive fair remuneration and clients get value for money.”
G4S is urging the government to tighten oversight and enforce rules consistently.
The call follows a February 2025 ruling by the Employment and Labour Relations Court, which upheld a Sh30,000 minimum wage for security guards announced by the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) in November 2023.
The court dismissed a petition by John Kipkorir representing the Private Security Industry Association, which claimed the notice lacked public participation and argued that only the Ministry of Labour could set minimum wages.
The ruling reaffirmed PSRA’s authority and revived enforcement of the higher wage. Currently, a day guard in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret earns Sh16,113.75 per month, while a night guard earns Sh17,976.54, far below the Sh30,000 threshold set in 2023 but not yet implemented due to industry pushback and legal challenges.
Former PSRA director-general Fazul Mahamed said that some security companies have deliberately slowed implementation to protect profits based on low-cost labour.
