Del Monte Kenya has partnered with G4S Kenya Ltd to reinforce security efforts in its operations.
The partnership is a response to recommendations from a recent human rights impact assessment, which endorses outsourcing security personnel as part of best practices, the company said in a statement.
The firm said it has engaged G4S Kenya to oversee security operations, citing the company's reputation and expertise in the field.
“We are committed to addressing the effects of the coordinated criminal operations targeting our fields and stealing large volumes of pineapples. This decision underscores Del Monte Kenya’s commitment to prioritising the safety and well-being of its personnel and surrounding communities,” the statement read.
Through the partnership, G4S Kenya will deploy approximately 270 security professionals who have undergone extensive training, to man the firm’s premises.
They will also handle incidences of theft of fruits on the company’s pineapple farms in Murang’a and Kiambu.
“The training curriculum emphasises real-life scenarios, de-escalation techniques and the minimum use of force, with refresher courses scheduled every six months to foster continued proficiency. All security officers have undergone vetting to promote the highest standards of professionalism and integrity,” the firm said.
The new workforce is finalising additional security and human rights awareness training, which is being conducted by the expert human rights group that led the HRIA and is in line with the HRIA recommendations.
G4S Kenya managing director Laurence Okelo said G4S Kenya maintains a steadfast dedication to ethical business practices and is aligned with recognised international human rights standards across its operations.
Del Monte Kenya acting deputy managing director Wayne Cook said, "We are committed to addressing the effects of the coordinated criminal operations targeting our fields and stealing large volumes of pineapples. The safety and security of each individual within our company and the surrounding community are our top priority."
He said they are working with G4S, local authorities and the police to craft strategies aimed at responding to these challenges safely and effectively.
