The Government of Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the private sector to enhance security at major national events and strengthen disaster preparedness systems across the country.

The pledge was made during high-level discussions held at Harambee House, bringing together officials from the Ministry of Interior and representatives of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA). The meeting was led by Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and KEPSA Security Board Chairperson Annette Kimitei.

During the engagement, leaders underscored the economic significance of conference tourism and large-scale public gatherings, noting that such events generate employment, attract international visitors, and sustain numerous businesses. They agreed that ensuring the safety of participants must remain a top national priority.

The KEPSA delegation included representatives from the Events Managers Association of Kenya (EMAK) and the Bouncers Association of Kenya, who held consultations with the Principal Secretary on strengthening security measures for conferences, business forums, concerts, sporting tournaments, political assemblies, and other public events.

At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides issued a joint statement announcing the formation of a structured partnership to enhance security management during major gatherings nationwide.

A multi-sectoral working group will be established under the leadership of the Internal Security Principal Administrative Secretary to develop a comprehensive national framework for event safety and security. The framework will define minimum safety standards tailored to different categories of events across the country.

The proposed working group will improve coordination among key players, with oversight from the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA). It will bring together law enforcement agencies, emergency response services, private security providers, and event organisers to strengthen planning, risk assessment, and disaster response mechanisms.

Officials emphasised that tourism and events are central to Kenya’s economic growth. From international sports competitions and entertainment concerts to conferences and community celebrations, the sector plays a vital role in job creation and business development.

Under the new framework, security will no longer be treated as an afterthought in event planning. Organisers of large-scale events will be required to conduct formal risk assessments before receiving approval. They must also demonstrate clear coordination with police services, ambulance teams, and fire departments.

The partnership will further focus on improving crowd control systems, ticket management processes, professional training for security personnel and medical teams, infrastructure and technology investment, combating counterfeit goods, addressing public health concerns, and enhancing cybersecurity and data protection measures.

Stakeholders expressed confidence that the collaboration marks a major step toward establishing a structured, nationwide approach to event safety — one that protects lives while supporting the continued growth of Kenya’s conference and events industry.

Kenya government, KEPSA launch national event security framework to boost safety and disaster preparedness