GardaWorld, a global security company was unveiled in Rwanda last Friday after concluding an acquisition of two local firms; KK Security and Agespro security companies.

The company, whose global headquarters are in Canada, operates in over 20 countries across the world.

During its launch, on Friday, May 21, the company handed over a sports field and nursery playground to Bright Angels International School located in the Remera sector of Gasabo district as a way of giving back to the community.

At the same event, they recognized the most outstanding security officers selected from the acquired companies.

Fred Ruzindana, the Deputy Principal of Bright Angels International School commended the support saying it will boost recreational activities for children, which is a key learning component.

"We commend the support from our neighbor- GardaWorld. As a new school, we needed a sports field for about 400 nursery and primary pupils. The entertainment facility will play a big role in refreshing the students' brains and keep them active. The grounds will also serve as a hosting place should we have an event,” he said.

GardaWorld headquarters are located in the Nyarutarama area, right next to the school.

Jean Claude Niyomugabo, a security officer who was awarded for his service praised GardaWorld saying the company has set up and implemented workable strategies to motivate employees.

"We are enjoying a conducive working environment. This includes getting timely salary payments. As a result, we are committed to working hard and carrying out our duties in an honest manner,” he said.

Agripine Nyiraminani, another security officer feted in the ceremony, reiterated that the recognition certificate means a lot in raising workers’ morale.

"We have to stick to discipline in our work because GardaWorld has created an enabling working environment for us,” she said.

The entrance of GardaWorld to the market brings with it an exciting new chapter for GardaWorld in Africa according to Oliver Westmacott, President, and COO of GardaWorld Security Services- Middle East and Africa.

‘With more than 3,700 security staff in Rwanda, GardaWorld stands proud as one of the leading security companies in the country,' he said.

"GardaWorld Rwanda offers integrated security solutions that are customized to the requirements of its clients. The successful integration and rebranding of KK Security and Agespro to GardaWorld is a significant milestone in GardaWorld’s growth ambitions for Africa,” he said.

He added, "Our local, regional, and international teams are excited to be part of this expansion and we all look forward to deepening our relationship with Rwanda and her people. GardaWorld looks forward to contributing positively to the Rwandan economy in the years to come.”

Being one of the largest privately-owned integrated security, cash solutions, and risk Management Company in North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and other regions, it is servicing more than 35,000 clients with more than 41,000 certified security professionals

"Africa is strategic for global growth aspirations. Rwanda is a strategic market where we have seen potential in people and market dynamics with the acquisition of KK Security and Agespro,” he said.

In a press conference to officially launch GardaWorld in Rwanda, Pacific Tuyishime, Ag Chief Investment Officer at Rwanda Development Board (RDB) commended GardaWorld investment saying it has an exciting vision.

"We as RDB are keen on facilitating GardaWorlds objectives and strategic initiatives in the different services they offer,” he said.

Nicholas Arnold, Managing Director, GardaWorld East Africa said that the company is committed to ensuring the welfare of security officers by creating and championing an enabling environment.

The company has invested in developing internal systems, its employees, and adding value through innovative new services to keep up with the growing demands for today's modern customers.

"We are keen on our staff. As a company policy, we will stick to our values which is to pay our staff on time. The staff welfare as well as that of their families is key. We want our staff to progress and improve their life,” he said.

‘’We recognize that our people are key to the successful delivery of our mission. We have therefore invested in identifying the best talent, developing their skill set and creating a conducive environment to grow them into effective leaders’’

GardaWorld’s operations span all major sectors ranging from healthcare, diplomatic, commercial, and residential, FMCG retail, and hospitality.

In Rwanda, GardaWorld will be handling Airport "Meet and Greet (Executive Services), emergency response solutions services, physical mobile, and static security services, close protection services, 24/7 operations center oversight, vehicle and asset tracking, fleet management systems, logistics & distribution support, crisis management (medical evacuation, emergency support), kidnap and response and crisis prevention training.

The company’s brands include GardaWorld Security Services, BEST Crowd Management, ECAMSECURE, and Crisis24.

By mitigating the risks and allowing their clients to conduct business in complete security, GardaWorld is strengthening the trust their clients place in them to protect their staff, their assets, and their operations.