By Peter Kinyanjui

For many Kenyans, private security still brings to mind a lone guard at a gate. In 2026, that image no longer tells the full story.

Private security has become one of Kenya’s biggest and most visible industries. Data from the Ministry of Interior and National Administration shows more than 2,000 registered private security companies operating across the country. Together, they employ hundreds of thousands of officers, placing the sector among the largest private employers nationwide.

That scale has changed how security works in everyday life.

Private firms now play a direct role in protecting homes, offices, schools, shopping centres and public events. For the public, this means security is no longer just about watching over property. It is about preventing harm and protecting people, using trained officers supported by carefully applied technology.

Why private security matters more now

Security risks have grown more complex and more visible. Residential estates, transport hubs and public gatherings all face a mix of safety concerns, from petty crime to crowd control.

In many urban areas, private security officers are a more common daily presence than police. That reality has pushed private firms to take on a larger role in early detection, prevention and first response.

“Security today is about stopping problems before they escalate,” says Peter Kinyanjui, Customer Service Manager at SGA Security Kenya. “The public expects officers who can think clearly, communicate well and act professionally under pressure.”

Modern private security focuses on spotting risks early, calming situations where possible and responding quickly when incidents occur. The emphasis has shifted from reacting after harm is done to preventing it in the first place.

Technology, but with limits

Technology now sits at the centre of many security operations. Surveillance cameras, access controls, alarms and digital reporting tools are widely used across residential and commercial spaces.

For the public, this often means faster response times and better coordination. It can also improve accountability, as incidents are recorded and reviewed.

Still, experts stress that technology does not replace people. Trained officers remain essential, particularly in communication, de-escalation and emergency response. Ethical judgement, not software, guides decisions on the ground.

Trust and public confidence

As private security becomes more embedded in daily life, trust has become a defining issue.

Officers work in spaces shared by families, shoppers, students and workers. Their conduct shapes how safe people feel. Professionalism, respect for human rights and adherence to the law are central to maintaining public confidence.

The same applies to technology. Surveillance systems raise questions about privacy and data use. The public expects transparency and restraint, alongside clear accountability when things go wrong.

“The uniform alone is not enough,” Kinyanjui says. “People want security officers who are approachable, fair and respectful. Trust is earned through daily conduct.”

What the public should expect in 2026

By 2026, Kenyans should expect more from private security than visibility.

Professional firms should deploy officers who communicate clearly, defuse tension and respond promptly to incidents. Technology should support safety without intruding on dignity or privacy. Companies should be regulated, identifiable and open about how they operate.

Accountability matters too. From proper identification to clear reporting channels, the public has a right to expect security providers who take responsibility for their actions.

As private security continues to expand its role, higher standards are no longer optional. They are essential to safer spaces and public trust.

Ultimately, private security in 2026 is about people. When human skill and technology work together, security becomes more proactive, more responsive and more focused on the communities it serves. Understanding how the sector works helps the public know what to expect, what to demand and why professional private security has become a key partner in an uncertain world.

About the Author:

Peter Kinyanjui, Customer Service Manager at SGA Security Kenya, Peter brings extensive experience in client relations and security solutions, focusing on delivering exceptional service and ensuring customer satisfaction across the company’s operation