Call for regulation of security industry intensifies

The Act, enacted to regulate private security companies, mandates the establishment of a regulatory board to oversee compliance. However, since its inception no regulation has been implemented. This lapse has resulted in disorder within the industry, where non-compliance and exploitation of security guards remain rampant.

"Since the Act was passed, there is still no regulation. It is lying between the ministries of home affairs, safety and security, and labour as well as employers and trade unions," David Frans of NSLF explained.

Regulation is seen as vital for the successful implementation of wage agreements, including the proposed N$13.50c per hour for security guards for 2025.

Without regulation, the forum argued, enforcing existing agreements becomes impossible. The blame was directed at the slow response of ministries, particularly the above-mentioned ministries.

NSLF representatives urged both ministries to fast-track regulatory processes, emphasising their role as custodians of labour standards.

The NSLF further raised concerns about the role of clients who dictate conditions in the security industry. “It is not the security employers who pay the guards. The guards are paid by clients, yet these clients often bypass regulations by employing individuals under other job titles, who ultimately perform security roles,” Frans noted.

The NSLF called for unified action among employers, trade unions and the government to restore order. They emphasised that a regulated industry would not only protect workers but also ensure fair competition and compliance.