G4S, one of the leading global integrated security companies, has announced plans to lay off about 400 employees over the next six months in Kenya.
In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of Kenya, the firm attributed the decision to diminished business opportunities caused by the harsh economic conditions.
According to the security company, the adverse economic situation has led to a reduction in its revenue and subsequently resulted in higher operational costs.
“We regret to inform the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the organization’s intention to declare several positions redundant. This letter therefore serves as a notice of redundancy under the provisions of the Employment Act, 2007, Section 40,” read part of the notice.
“The redundancy exercise is likely to affect approximately four hundred (400) employees based in various locations in Kenya, including both management and other categories, between 04 November 2024 and April 2025,” the statement added.
However, despite announcing the planned mass layoffs, the security company emphasized its commitment to continuing operations within the Kenyan market.
The company further assured the government of its intention to implement strategic solutions that would help secure employment for Kenyans while sustaining positive business performance.
“We wish to assure the Ministry of Labour that we will adhere to all minimum legal requirements stipulated for this kind of action,” the letter read in part.
The announcement by G4S has drawn the attention of many Kenyans, including economists and the political class, who have expressed mixed reactions to the decision. While some viewed it as a painful but necessary business move, others shifted the blame to the government.
Commenting on the matter, the Chairperson of the Presidential Council of Economic Advisors, David Ndii, termed the move a normal occurrence in most economies.
“In a market economy, businesses start and fail every day. Some hire, some fire. Some grow, some shrink. We measure economic performance by aggregates—i.e., macro-level outcomes. As they say, one swallow does not make a summer. Further evidence why the law should be a secondary consideration,” Ndii commented.
Ndii was compelled to comment on the matter after Kenyans online accused the government of having inverted priorities.
