KK security rebrands to GardaWorld, eyes seamless integration

One of the largest private security firms in the country, KK Security, has officially rebranded to GardaWorld Securit, with the company prioritising integrating systems and operations before the rebrand.

Country Director for Kenya Rishi Ahluwalia said the rebranding was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic after being acquired in 2016, with company boasting of more than 8,000 employees in Kenya standing as one of the largest private security employers.

Ahluwalia said that the firm aims to be a one-stop shop for security needs, including guarding, facilities management, K9 units, fire rescue, and roadside assistance across a sector with 2,500 registered security firms nationwide.

"The rebranding of KK Security to GardaWorld Security reaffirms our commitment and confidence in the Kenyan market with an upgraded National Security Operations Centre, enhanced monitoring systems and" said Ahluwalia.

He said that the company offers customised security solutions for aviation, logistics, agriculture, and diplomatic missions, combining "global capability and standards with domestic and round-the-clock mobile response network as key features of its expanded services.

Ahluwalia said that by merging KK Security's decades of local experience with GardaWorld's C$14 billion global enterprise, the rebrand signals new investment in training, technology and career opportunities, particularly for young professionals.

The County Director said that GardaWorld is looking to expand its services into facilities management and hospitality, including catering, with the company also planning to launch a mobile app for roadside assistance in the coming months.

"Kenya's private security sector serves as a vital economic driver, directly employing approximately 1.3 million personnel and supporting countless dependents nationwide, with GardaWorld proud of being part of this," said Ahluwalia.

On the recent developments around fair wages, the High Court in February upheld a Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) directive requiring security firms to pay guards a minimum gross salary of Sh 30,000 (about US$ $235) monthly before deductions.

Ahluwalia confirmed GardaWorld's full compliance with the employment laws of Kenya and that they will continue to engage very closely with the regulator so as to have a level playing field by ensuring companies that treat their staff fairly are not undercut on costs.

Under the Private Security Regulatory Authority framework, the minimum wage combines base pay, house allowance, and overtime allowance, with standard deductions for NSSF, NHIF, PAYE, and housing levy.

In January 2025, the Competition Authority of Kenya approved Canadian entrepreneur and GardaWorld CEO Stephan Cretier's bid for full control over KK Security's parent company, positioning the firm for its next growth phase in Kenya's security market.