The government through the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) is set to inspect major entertainment joints in various parts of the Nairobi metropolitan. The move is to ensure that all persons employed to provide security are licenced.
“The purpose of this inspection is to ensure that the bouncers employed or otherwise engaged by these establishments have undergone mandatory security training, are duly licensed and possess valid Guard Force Numbers (GFNs) to operate as private security service providers,” the notice reads.
The clubs to be inspected include: Kettlehouse in Lavington, Quiver in Kitengela, Black Samurai Lounge, Oyster Bay, Embassy Bistrol and Quiver Lounge Kitengela
The exercise is being undertaken in accordance with Section 9 (b) of the Act adding it will be undertaken regularly and periodically.“…to underscore the Authority’s determination for continuous oversight and enforcement of compliance to standards,” it states.
The inspection follows a directive issued by the regulator a month ago, stipulating that all private security personnel must undergo compulsory security training.
The PSRA warned that individuals providing security services without a valid training certificate or proper registration and licensing could face penalties, including fines or imprisonment.
After completing the training, licensed bouncers will be issued guard force numbers by the private security regulatory authority. These numbers must be visibly worn by the bouncers while on duty, displaying both their names and license numbers.
To enhance accountability, all bouncers are mandated to operate under the umbrella of corporate entities, the regulator said.