Kenya union’s push culminates in launch of sacco for private security workers

A new savings and credit cooperative society (Sacco) targeting Kenya’s private security sector was launched in Nairobi on Tuesday, capping a four-year campaign led by the Kenya National Private Security Workers Union (KNPSWU) to improve financial access and stability for frontline security personnel.

The National Service and Walinzi Sacco, unveiled at Ulinzi Sports Ground with the support of the Ministry of Co-operatives and MSME Development, is designed to serve private security guards and domestic workers—groups that have historically been excluded from formal financial systems.

KNPSWU spearheaded the formation of the Sacco as part of its reform agenda to address systemic financial vulnerabilities, including delayed wages and lack of access to credit. The union mobilised members, engaged stakeholders, and lobbied employers and regulators to back the initiative, which it says will offer a predictable and secure financial future for guards across the country.

The chairman of the National Service and Walinzi SACCO, Isaac Andabwa described the launch as a “valuable opportunity to uplift serving Kenya’s servicemen and women.” Andabwa reiterated his commitment to the cooperative’s mission to provide affordable credit, investment options, and broaden financial access while ensuring the sustainable growth of saccos. “If we unite together with good leadership, we will become the biggest sacco in this country,” Andabwa boldly declared.

Michala Lafferty, Head of Property Services at UNI Global Union,  commended the Kenyan union’s leadership for championing the economic rights of private security workers. “This Sacco is a landmark achievement not just for security guards, but for the Kenyan labour movement as a whole. It shows what’s possible when unions lead with vision and courage. KNPSWU has set a powerful example for unions everywhere fighting for financial justice for low-paid workers,” Lafferty said.

The Sacco will offer tailored services including salary advances, savings plans, development loans, and credit products. It will also extend services to corporate employers through payroll advances, invoice financing, and asset support—designed to stabilise operations and enhance worker welfare.

A key part of the Sacco’s mission is to boost financial literacy among members, ensuring that they are equipped to manage their income, invest wisely, and build assets.

The initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to modernise Kenya’s cooperative sector and expand financial inclusion. For KNPSWU, however, it also marks a turning point in the union’s mission to elevate the lives of workers long overlooked in national economic planning.