The Ministry of Public Service and Labour and Rwanda National Police, recently undertook a thorough inspection of private security companies in Rwanda. The focus was on evaluating their adherence to labour standards for decent work.

Owners and managers of 16 registered private security companies were warmly invited to a meeting where the inspection findings were discussed. A concerning revelation emerged: around 20.8% of close to 30,000 security employees lacked written employment contracts, contributions to social security, uncompensated overtime and more than 40% extra working hours in some companies were also prevaling issues.

Musonera Gaspard, Permanent Secretary at MIFOTRA, stressed the imperative for private security companies to align with labour standards and strive for security staff motivation as a critical factor for the performance, effectiveness and growth of their companies. He highlighted some indicators of decent work to be pursued, including formal employment contracts, salary payment through bank, social security contributions, health insurance, and avoiding unlawful overtime, among others underscoring the companies’ adherence benefits.

The Commissioner for Infrastructure Security and Private Security Service Providers, CP John Bosco Kabera, emphasized the vital link between security guards' well-being and the prevention of security threats. Prioritizing staff welfare is not just a moral obligation but also a strategic imperative for maintaining security standards.

Both MIFOTRA and Rwanda National Police have urged private security companies to promptly address inspection recommendations and rectify identified shortcomings. Warning them that non-compliance with these directives will result into penalties.