Tanzania’s growing private security sector has created employment opportunities and strengthened the protection of people and property, but the absence of a dedicated law governing the industry remains an issue requiring attention, Deputy Speaker Daniel Sillo has said.
Mr Sillo said the sector plays an important role in supporting businesses and institutions to operate in secure environments, contributing to economic activity and social welfare.
However, he stressed the need for stronger professional standards, continuous training and consultations among stakeholders to establish an effective legal framework for the industry.
He made the remarks on October 21, 2026, when representing Speaker Mussa Azzan Zungu at the opening of the 18th General Labour Meeting of the Tanzania Security Industry Association (TSIA) in Dodoma.
“The services provided by this sector are wide-ranging, including guarding people and property, cash-in-transit services, electronic security systems, firefighting and rescue, private investigations, security consultancy and personal protection,” he said.
“These services have created many employment opportunities and helped various institutions carry out their responsibilities in a stable environment,” he added.
The sector's contribution extends beyond conventional guarding services to include specialised security operations that support businesses, institutions and individuals. Its growing responsibilities, however, also make professional conduct and effective oversight important to public confidence.
Mr Sillo urged security companies and their employees to comply with the law, respect citizens' rights and privacy, and protect confidential information obtained in the course of their duties.
He also called for continuous training for guards and supervisors to improve their ability to prevent security incidents and respond appropriately when emergencies occur.
“I urge you to strengthen continuous training for guards and supervisors in workplace ethics, customer service, incident prevention, first aid, the safe use of equipment and strategies implemented in collaboration with the police,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of cooperation between private security providers and the police in strengthening security services and improving responses to incidents.
The regulatory challenge
The absence of a dedicated law governing private security services emerged as a key issue in Mr Sillo's address, with the Deputy Speaker saying Parliament recognised the importance of legislation to regulate the industry.
He called on the relevant authorities to undertake comprehensive consultations before proceeding with the proposed law, arguing that the views of industry players and other institutions should be considered.
He identified TSIA, Parliament's Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Security, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the police and other stakeholders as parties that should participate in the consultations.
The proposed legislation could help establish clearer rules for the industry, including the responsibilities of security providers and the standards expected of those offering services. However, its specific provisions would depend on the consultation process and the eventual legislative proposals.
For companies operating in the sector, clear regulations would provide a framework for conducting business, while stronger professional standards could help protect clients and members of the public.
The industry also faces the responsibility of ensuring that employment growth is accompanied by appropriate training, ethical conduct and respect for the rights of people who interact with private security personnel.
Mr Sillo's remarks therefore placed the sector's contribution to employment and public safety alongside the need for stronger regulation, professional accountability and cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
He said consultations should ensure that the concerns and recommendations of all relevant stakeholders are taken into account as Tanzania considers legislation for the industry.