Demand for reliable security services is rising across Zambia’s residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Launching a private security company can therefore be lucrative—provided you understand the legal landscape, obtain the right permits, and plan for the full range of start‑up and operating costs. This guide walks you through every major step in 2025, from PACRA registration to firearms licensing, so you can establish a compliant, competitive security firm. [7][15]
1. Regulatory Snapshot (2025)
- No standalone security law—yet. Zambia still lacks a dedicated Private Security Act, meaning firms operate mainly under general company and firearms legislation. [7]
- New bill pending. Cabinet approved a Private Security Companies Regulation Bill in 2022; once passed, it will introduce stricter licensing and training rules. [15]
- Industry self‑regulation. The Private Security Association of Zambia (PSCAZ) sets voluntary standards but cannot replace state oversight. [19]
Tip: Join PSCAZ early and monitor the bill’s progress so your company transitions smoothly when new regulations arrive.
2. Registering the Company with PACRA
| Step | Action | Key Cost (K) | Notes |
| 1 | Name clearance (up to 3 choices) | 90 | Reserve name for 30 days; extend 90 days for K200. [13] |
| 2 | Prepare incorporation docs | — | At least two directors; 50 % must be Zambian residents. |
| 3 | File with PACRA | ≈ 1 300 | 2.5 % of nominal capital (min K20 000) + standard filing fees. [9] |
| 4 | Receive Certificate of Incorporation | — | Enables you to open a bank account, sign contracts, and apply for further permits. |
3. Security‑Specific Approvals
3.1 Police Vetting
The Zambia Police Service reviews directors’ backgrounds, operational plans, and the firm’s capacity to protect life and property. Begin this vetting immediately after incorporation to avoid delays. [7]
3.2 Firearms Licensing (If Offering Armed Guards)
- Per‑weapon licence: K66.60 (rifle or pistol) [10]
- Secure storage and transport permits required.
- Renewal intervals set by the Firearms Act; budget annual inspection fees.
3.3 Guard Recruitment & Training
Although no statutory curriculum exists, best‑practice companies:
- Run criminal‑record checks on every recruit.
- Deliver a minimum 160‑hour basic security course (law, use of force, customer service).
- Issue distinct uniforms and ID to avoid confusion with state security. [7]
4. Essential Business Permits
| Permit | Issuer | Typical Fee Range | Purpose |
| Municipal trading licence | Local council | 1 500 – 5 000 | Legal right to operate premises. |
| Health inspection | Local council | 500 – 1 000 | Verifies sanitary working conditions. |
| Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) TIN & VAT | ZRA | Free (registration) | Mandatory for all employers; VAT if turnover > K800 000. |
| NAPSA & Workers’ Compensation | NAPSA / WCFCB | % of payroll | Staff pensions and workplace‑injury cover. |
5. Cost Breakdown
5.1 Up‑Front Investment
| Category | Low‑Range Estimate (K) | Remarks |
| PACRA registration | 1 300 | From §2. |
| Business & municipal licences | 10 000 – 20 000 | Varies by district and service scope. |
| Office fit‑out & IT | 25 000 – 60 000 | Desks, computers, radios, CCTV monitoring software. |
| Uniforms & basic gear | 100 per guard | Bulk orders cut costs. |
| Vehicles (2 used pickups) | 280 000 | Essential for patrol/rapid response. |
| Liability & professional indemnity cover (6 months) | ≈ 120 000 | Quoted by local insurers for security operations. [11] |
Total start‑up range: ≈ K450 000 – K650 000 (≈ US $18 000 – $26 000).
5.2 Recurring Monthly Costs
- Guard wages & benefits: K3 500 – K5 000 per guard.
- Fuel & vehicle maintenance: K8 000 – K12 000 for a two‑vehicle fleet.
- Insurance premiums: ≈ K20 000.
- Licence renewals & PACRA returns: Spread the annual cost (K267 + council fees) across twelve months. [13]
- Training & refresher courses: ≈ K300 per guard.
6. Choosing Your Service Portfolio
| Service | Why It Matters | Extra Requirements |
| Static guarding | Core revenue driver for offices, malls, mines. | High staff numbers; 24/7 rosters. |
| Mobile patrol | Adds value for SME clients needing night checks. | GPS‑tracked vehicles; fuel budget. |
| Cash‑in‑transit | Lucrative but high‑risk. | Armoured vans, firearms licences, specialised training. |
| Electronic monitoring | Scalable recurring income. | Partnership with alarm/CCTV suppliers; 24‑hour control room. |
| Executive protection | Premium service for diplomats & CEOs. | Close‑protection training, discreet vehicles. [16] |
Start with one or two niches you can fund fully and deliver professionally; expand only after building a reputation.
7. Key Challenges & Mitigation
- Regulatory uncertainty – Track the Private Security Bill through Parliament; allocate compliance funds now to avoid future surprises. [15]
- Talent retention – Offer clear career paths and performance bonuses to reduce guard turnover.
- Competition from multinationals – Differentiate through faster response times, local market knowledge, and transparent pricing.
- Emerging threats (cyber & terror) – Invest in ongoing intelligence briefings and scenario‑based drills; partner with cybersecurity firms for integrated solutions. [7][45]
Conclusion
Starting a security company in Zambia demands more than hiring guards and buying uniforms. You must secure PACRA registration, satisfy police vetting, budget for diverse licences, and prepare for forthcoming industry‑specific legislation. An initial investment of roughly K450 000–K650 000 sets the stage for a professional, scalable firm—one ready to protect clients and comply with tomorrow’s regulatory landscape. Stay proactive, prioritise rigorous training, and cultivate strong government and industry relationships to thrive in Zambia’s growing security market.
