By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Cabinet has approved the Principles of the Private Investigators and Security Guards (Control) Bill, a development aimed at enhancing public protection through the development of standards and compliance measures within the private security industry. The Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, announced this during the Thirty-Ninth Post-Cabinet Press Briefing in Harare yesterday.
The legislation, presented by Honourable Kazembe Kazembe, Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, responds to the rapid growth of the security sector and the evolving technological advancements that necessitate a regulatory overhaul.
“The exponential growth of the security sector and technological advancements necessitated the amendment of the Principles of the Private Investigators and Security Guards (Control) Act [Chapter 27:10],” Muswere noted.
Dr. Muswere further stated that the primary responsibility of the new Authority will be to ensure that all entities in the private security sector adhere to governing legislation while setting standards and codes of conduct through rigorous licensing, training, monitoring, and inspections.
“The Authority will also ensure that security guards and management personnel possess the required training and credentials, thereby raising professional standards,” he added.
In addition to monitoring compliance, Muswere emphasized that the Authority will have the power to investigate grievances and impose penalties on individuals or firms that violate the Act or established codes of conduct. The Principles of the Bill also outline the formation of the Zimbabwe Private Security Regulatory Authority Board, with members appointed in accordance with the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act [Chapter 10:31].
Importantly, private investigator licenses will only be awarded by the Authority after thorough background checks, completion of requisite training, and attainment of a government-recognized qualification. This comprehensive vetting process aims to ensure that only qualified personnel are entrusted with critical security responsibilities.
The Cabinet’s approval of the Private Investigators and Security Guards (Control) Bill represents a proactive step towards enhancing the regulation of Zimbabwe’s security sector, ensuring increased professionalism and accountability in the industry while prioritizing public safety.