The Kenya National Private Security Workers Union (KNPSWU) has broken silence over the mass layoffs affecting 400 G4S security officers.
KNPSWU Secretary General Isaac Andabwa has dismissed claims of looming mass layoffs affecting security guards in any other companies, saying that the scare is unwarranted.
His statement follows an alarm raised by the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) about potential job losses at G4S Kenya, citing an internal memo to employees indicating over 400 layoffs.
“PSRA has begun behaving like a trade union, blaming a particular industry for redundancy, and yet in ignorance of section 40 of the employment act. It raises a lot of questions about that institution,” he said.
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PSRA Blamed over the Mass Layoffs
Additionally, Andabwa has criticized the PSRA, urging the agency to focus on its primary role of regulating the private security industry rather than causing unnecessary panic among workers.
He emphasized the need for stability and called on the PSRA to act responsibly in addressing matters within its jurisdiction.
Andabwa further urged the Ministry of Labor to fast-track the pending salary increments of security guards as discussed earlier of 30,000 shillings minimum wage
“What I would like them to do, PSRA should protect the employment of the security officers,” added Andabwa.
Also Read: G4S Kenya Announces Plans to Fire 400 Employees
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Notice of Redundancy to G4S
On November 13, PSRA raised an alarm about the layoffs, noting that the families would be left without livelihoods, calling out the workers union for not protecting the victims.
“And just like that over 400 Kenyan families will be left without a source of Income and without adequate compensation to cushion them. Where is the Union of
“Andabwa, Soita etc and the Ministry of Labour, or their job end at the collection of Monthly Union Fees? This is unfair and unacceptable!” stated the Authority.
G4S on November 4 announced plans to fire four hundred employees in the next six months.
G4S Human Resources Director, Helgah Kimanani, said the decision has been made due to a decrease in business in Kenya.
The HR Director said the letter serves as a notice of redundancy pursuant to the provision of the Employment Act, 2007 Section 40 (1).
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