Economic Strain Forces G4S to Cut 400 Jobs in Kenya
G4S, a global leader in integrated security services, has announced a significant downsizing of its workforce in Kenya, citing tough economic conditions. The security company revealed plans to lay off approximately 400 employees over the next six months, with reductions impacting both management and lower-tier roles across various locations in the country.
In an official statement to the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, G4S attributed the layoffs to shrinking business opportunities and rising operational costs driven by a challenging economic climate
“We regret to advise the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the organization’s intentions to declare several positions redundant,” the notice stated, referencing Section 40 of the Employment Act, 2007. It further noted, “The redundancy exercise is likely to affect approximately four hundred (400) employees between 04 November 2024 and April 2025.”
Despite the layoffs, G4S reaffirmed its commitment to the Kenyan market and assured the government of its dedication to fostering job creation while pursuing long-term business stability. “We wish to assure the Ministry of Labour that we shall adhere to all the minimum legal requirements stipulated for this kind of action,” the company pledged.
The decision has stirred reactions from various quarters, with economists, politicians, and the general public weighing in on its implications. While some view the layoffs as a harsh but necessary response to economic conditions, others have placed blame on government policies.
David Ndii, Chairperson of the Presidential Council of Economic Advisors, addressed the announcement, framing it as a common occurrence within market 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—macro-level outcomes. As they say, one swallow does not make a summer,” Ndii remarked, pushing back against criticisms aimed at the government.
Ndii’s comments came amid a flurry of online debates, with many Kenyans accusing the government of misplaced priorities in the face of economic strain.
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Economic Strain Forces G4S to Cut 400 Jobs in Kenya
