• KEPSA and the Ministry of Interior warn of growing safety risks from “occupy culture” during holiday events, urging tighter crowd control and emergency coordination.

  • The private sector is pushing for certified security managers at public gatherings to ensure professional oversight and disaster preparedness.

As the festive season approaches, Kenya is bracing for a surge in public gatherings that has prompted urgent calls for enhanced event security.

Government officials and private sector leaders are sounding the alarm over a growing trend dubbed “occupy culture,” where spontaneous crowd surges overwhelm event spaces, posing serious safety risks.

During a recent courtesy visit to the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo, the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) Security Sector Board, led by Chairperson Annette Kimitei, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration in managing event security.


KEPSA’s Security Sector Board Chair, Ms. Annette Kimitei (left) and Principal Secretary, Dr. Raymond Omollo (front right) during the couresy visit. (Photo Credit: Ministry of Interior| Kenya, X)


The delegation warned that the rise in unregulated crowd behavior especially during high-profile concerts, religious gatherings, and public celebrations could strain emergency response systems and endanger lives.

The phenomenon of “occupy culture” reflects a digitally connected population eager to gather, often mobilized through social media. While this energy fuels Kenya’s vibrant event scene, it also demands a new level of preparedness.

KEPSA is advocating for the mandatory hiring of certified security managers for large-scale events to ensure crowd control, emergency readiness, and structured coordination.

The festive season typically sees a spike in public events across the country, from end-of-year concerts to religious crusades and cultural festivals. With this comes the challenge of balancing celebration with safety.

KEPSA and the Ministry of Interior are now working toward a joint national strategy that prioritizes professional oversight, disaster preparedness, and inclusive security planning.

As Kenya prepares for a packed holiday calendar, the hope is that this season will be remembered for joy not jeopardy. With renewed collaboration and a focus on professionalism, the country is taking steps to ensure that public gatherings remain safe, secure, and celebratory.

Stay connected with us on WhatsApp and X for instant updates and breaking news as it happens.