2024 Winners’ Summaries

Outstanding In-House Security Manager/Director
Edward Achola – Base Titanium
Edward has shown great skill, experience, commitment, dedication, maturity and judgement while carrying out his role as Security Manager at Base Titanium. In his tenure, he has overseen, delivered and excelled on several fronts such as recruiting and training a security team sourced from the people directly impacted by the mine site. While safeguarding Base’s personnel and assets, Edward has simulated and created collaboration with public security agencies in accordance with local laws and Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights (VPSHR). No human rights violation cases have been reported due to a well-oiled, inclusive and humane working environment.

Outstanding Contract Security Manager/Director
Peter Kinyanjui – SGA Security
Peter is a reliable and enthusiastic leader who has had a remarkable influence at SGA Security in his two positions as Customer Service Manager and In-House Security Manager. Known for his persistent problem-solving mindset and strong dedication to collaboration, Peter has successfully incorporated ISO 18788 standards into their operations. He established the Security Operations & Intelligence Centre (SOIC) to improve security awareness and foster client trust. With a keen focus on fostering a culture of change, he has successfully cultivated a proactive and risk-aware environment throughout the organisation. Peter’s exceptional strategic vision and unwavering dedication make him a truly deserving recipient of this highly esteemed award.

Outstanding New Security Product
Askari Workforce Management – Askari Technologies
Askari is a disruptive collaborative asset for workforce management that leverages on technology and innovation with global best practices to optimize security services, reduce cost and increase transparency. Askari monitors, manages and automates core functions of time and attendance, patrols, incident reporting and task management for security officers. With improved workforce accountability and operation efficiency, expenditure decreases while profits increase giving maximum value at minimum cost.

Outstanding Security Officer
Elizabeth Baruka Samba – SGA Security
Recognized for outstanding innovation and excellence in security performance, Elizabeth has set a new standard in the industry. Elizabeth was part of a team of 32 ladies that strengthened both cyber security and physical security measures, ensuring seamless protection for millions. Her commitment to continuous improvement and collaboration has not only enhanced security but also inspired industry wide best practices.

Outstanding Female Security Professional
Annette Kimitei – Senaca East Africa
Annette is a trailblazer in the security industry, being one of the first female members of the governing board for the Protective Security Industry Association in Kenya. She founded Women in Safety Excellence (WISE) to promote women’s roles in safety and security and established the Private Security Training Academy to professionalize security officers. Annette is a certified Global Board Competence Professional and has transformed Senaca EA into a leading security firm in East Africa over the past eight years. Under her leadership, Senaca EA has received numerous awards for excellence in real estate, innovation, and diversity.

Outstanding Young Security Professional
Favor Gakii – Secured Insights
Favor is a dynamic security professional with a proven track record in enhancing security systems and empowering communities. As a Security Consultant at Secured Insights, she has optimised her knowledge, while developing comprehensive security risk management strategies. In her role at Women in Safety Excellence (WISE), she has supported leadership initiatives and promoted diversity in the security field. Her volunteer work includes developing a security education curriculum at Goodwill Orphanage and conducting global human rights research with Amnesty International. Recognized as a WISF Power 100 Honouree, Favor is a trailblazer committed to advancing security and empowerment.

Lifetime Achievement
James Dutkowski
James Dutkowski, the co-founder and Managing Director of Lady Askari, has over 20 years of experience in security and risk management, having worked in the East African region for over 15 years. Since establishing the company in 2020, he has consistently led it to success. James is known for his efforts to empower women in a predominantly male industry and has mentored his team to engage in high-level security projects and international speaking engagements. His commitment to knowledge sharing is evident in his diverse range of security training, including hostile environment awareness (HEAT), Active Shooter Training, and counter-terrorism.