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In 2016, GardaWorld Security assumed control of KK Kenya Security’s operations, providing top-tier services.
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The firm declared a rebranding from KK Security to GardaWorld Security Kenya Limited as part of an effort to integrate global standards into Kenya’s security sector.
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In an exclusive interview with GaptekZone.co.ke, GardWorld Security Kenya country manager Rishi Ahluwalia demonstrated the firm’s new line of services supported by technology and trends in artificial intelligence
On a sunny Wednesday morning, I set out for my trip to the GuardaWorld training facility, previously known as KK Security, located at the Ngong Racecourse in Nairobi.
Thanks to GuardaWorld Executive Journey Management, I enjoyed a VIP experience during my ride from the Central Business District (CBD).
Upon arrival, I was warmly welcomed by Rishi Ahluwalia, Guarda World Security’s Country Director for Kenya, and his team. I was also welcomed with hot drinks and breakfast prepared by the GuardaWorld Hospitality team.
“Following over fifty years of delivering dependable services in Kenya and East Africa under the brand KK Security, we are delighted to unveil our new identity as Guarda World Security. This transformation goes beyond merely updating logos or pamphlets; it signifies expanded opportunities, enhanced capacities, and increased investments in Kenya,” Ahluwalia stated in an exclusive interview.
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Ahluwalia pointed out that the security company, boasting over 8,000 employees throughout various regions of Kenya, is transitioning to meet global benchmarks. This advancement is being fueled by fresh investments in technological innovations and cutting-edge developments in artificial intelligence.
How GuardaWorld Security utilizes technology and artificial intelligence
The director pointed out that AI is essentially reshaping the essence of business, and the security sector is not exempt from this change.
What AI accomplishes is that it acts as an amplifier for humans operating from within the control room, at the helm of a vehicle, or observing through a CCTV camera and keeping track of events.
“Thus, AI can detect aspects that a person could overlook. It can identify deviations from the usual baseline of how a scenario ought to unfold and initiate an alarm. In essence, AI operates around the clock,” he stated.
As technology evolved, GuardaWorld guaranteed the resilience of its staff by adopting e-learning and ensuring workers stayed current with industry developments.
While touring the training facility—a classroom equipped with WiFi and e-learning resources—Ahluwalia shared that renaming the company from KK to GuardaWorld has not altered its workforce.
“The individuals we employ stay consistent. The guards safeguarding your residences, the crews addressing your emergency calls at midnight, the executive protection agents ensuring client safety during travel, as well as those who have safely escorted you from downtown to our racetrack facility today—all these professionals maintain their roles. They are the very men and women who have gained Kenya’s confidence over time,” he remarked.
What services does GuardaWorld provide?
Guard and firefighting services
After leaving the classroom, we headed directly to the parade, where the country manager reviewed the guard and exchanged the flag from KK to GardWorld.
A team of skilled professionals, both men and women adorned in the GuardaWorld uniform, displayed their expertise with great pride.
They similarly displayed the company’s quadruped staff members—the patrol dogs and explosives detection canines—comprising the K-9 unit.
“Their inclusion goes beyond being just an advanced feature; they also add a touching element when integrated into any client site. Our team members often form strong bonds with clients as well,” said the country manager.
A group of firefighters showcased GuardaWorld’s firefighting capabilities, highlighting a rather distinctive yet essential service during crucial moments for national infrastructure protection.
“I take great pride in our firefighting capabilities. We possess our own fleet of fire trucks, quick-response vehicles, and emergency medical services. Everything is managed internally. Our firefighters, training instructors, EMTs, and equipment are all under our control,” he stated.
Monitoring and alert management services
Following the thrilling parade, we embark on another journey to visit the recently inaugurated National Security Operations Centre.
In this scenario, we had firsthand exposure to the integration of technology and real-time tracking capabilities with GuardWorld’s leading network of mobile response units across the nation.
As stated by the director, this guarantees that every occurrence anywhere within the nation can be addressed by one of our teams present at any location and moment.
“Personally, one of the highlights of the rebranding process has been the opportunity to significantly invest in our National Security Operations Centre. This makes it not only the top facility in Kenya but, as I see it, the premier center in all of East Africa. Additionally, we’ve enhanced our alarm response services. These improvements allow us to enhance our operations, react more swiftly, and remain proactive against evolving security risks,” stated Ahluwalia.
Catering and transport services
The director mentioned that the company has also committed resources to enhancing, expanding, and modernizing our ability to manage executive journeys.
He mentioned that we expanded our facilities management capabilities to encompass our own capacity for handling outsourced catering services, an experience you’ve had firsthand.
The company ventured into the hospitality sector by providing catering services to its customers. Additional offerings encompassed the supply of specialized personnel, such as laboratory technicians.
“The scope of our operations is extensive. Security forms the core of our business. However, when considering our broader capabilities, such as firefighting and emergency response, consultancy services for risk assessment, facility management, property oversight, and outsourced staffing, there is an immense range of activities we undertake,” observed the director.
Are GuardaWorld services certified?
The country director disclosed that the firm undergoes routine audits and holds an ISO 9001 certification for its adherence to compliant and high-quality management practices.
Thus, our clients understand that this demonstrates our capability to provide exceptional service delivery through procedures and methodologies that meet the global benchmark of quality expectations.
He further noted that we are also subscribers and certified according to ISO 18788 standards, which oversee the security sector.
Key aspects of the KK Security transition you should be aware of
In 2016, GardaWorld Security acquired KK Security Limited and since then has managed it with an eye toward technological advancements and innovations.
In April 2025, the firm rebranded to GardaWorld Security – Africa in Kenya, after 10 years under the global brand.
Ahluwalia said the new brand aims to operate on artificial intelligence (AI)-powered tools to enhance its services in the country.
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