Rwanda National Police

The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Emmanuel K. Gasana has urged private security service providers to stay on course, be defined by professionalism and high level of discipline.

The Police Chief made the remarks, yesterday, while speaking at a one-day consultative meeting of supervisors of private security companies held at the Rwanda National Police (RNP) headquarters in Kacyiru.

The meeting aimed at looking into how best the services offered by the private security firms can be streamlined and made more professional.

While commending their contribution on the current security status in the country, IGP Gasana encouraged them to always go back to their companies’ mission and vision, ensure they have adequate operational requirements, strategic considerations and effective execution of their duties.

“Remember, the market is competitive and if you don’t keep up with the standards you will eventually be pushed off the market by your competitors. The rate at which our country is developing and investors coming require professional and quality services,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of regular inspection of their areas of operation, continuous training as essential factors to professional services.

IGP Gasana cited Standard Operating Procedures, operational kit, and inspection checklist as crucial factors, and added that RNP as the regulator, will continue to inspect them to ensure that they comply with the professional standards.

He also hinted on the importance of real time information sharing in order to detect and prevent any security threats and protect people’s lives and their property, all which calls for alertness on assets of high value and to invest more in security infrastructures.

He pledged the force’s continued support in capacity building and any other possible means.

The chairperson on the Rwanda Private Security Industry Association (RPSIA), Dr Nshuti Rugerinyange said; “Ever since we established the association, we are making progress towards streamlining the industry. We also intend to certify members and also come up with a minimum and reasonable pay for all guards.”

He also said that part of the future plans is having an accredited entity to be in charge of training of all guards.

During the meeting, the Commissioner in charge of Private Security Companies, ACP Jean Nepo Mbonyumuvunyi made a presentation on the current status of all the 16 registered companies, the challenges they face and how to overcome them.

He also emphasized the need for enhance information sharing saying that it’s the best way the firms can get quick interventions where needed.

Currently there are close to 18,500 security guards working for the 16 registered companies.