January 2025

The global security sector has long been plagued by two persistent challenges- a lack of professionalism and inclusivity. Globally, private security services often fail to meet international standards, compromising trust and safety. Simultaneously, the industry has been predominantly male-dominated, offering limited opportunities for women to participate or thrive. These issues are glaring in Zimbabwe, with the added challenge of high unemployment rates among women. But Divine Ndhlukula has created a change that would elevate the country’s security industry standards and foster gender equality. She established Securico, a company that has redefined excellence in security services while empowering women on an unprecedented scale. In 1998, Divine Ndhlukula founded Securico to meet Zimbabwe’s security needs; in the process, she provided more employment opportunities for women. It began as a small startup operating at her cottage with just three employees. Driven by her determination to address Zimbabwe’s lack of professional and ethical security solutions, Ndhlukula built a company grounded in integrity, efficiency, and customer-centricity. The company was the first in Zimbabwe to achieve ISO certification, a global acknowledgement of quality and professionalism. Securico has earned clients’ trust, combining manned guarding services, electronic security solutions, and cash management expertise from multinational corporations to local businesses. Securico ‘s focus on excellence has not only transformed the security system in Zimbabwe but has also placed it on the global stage as a model of professionalism. The company’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its client retention, with 67% of business coming from existing clients, indicating high satisfaction and trust. While its commitment to raising industry standards is commendable, its most significant impact lies in its role as a driver of gender inclusivity. Recognising the barriers women face in male-dominated industries, Divine Ndhlukula made it her mission to empower women within her organisation. Today, Securico is the second-largest employer of women in Zimbabwe, after the government, with women comprising a significant number of its workforce. The company has grown to employ over 4,000 individuals, with more than 900 being women, making it the largest private employer of women in Zimbabwe outside the civil service. From frontline security officers to managerial roles, women have found a supportive environment where they can develop their skills, advance their careers, and gain financial independence. Securico invests heavily in training and mentorship programs, ensuring women have the technical expertise and leadership skills necessary to excel. This approach has transformed the lives of individual employees and inspired systemic change, challenging societal norms and proving that women can thrive in any field. The company has contributed to reducing poverty and improving the livelihoods of countless families in Zimbabwe. Furthermore, its emphasis on professionalism has raised the standards of the security industry, instilling confidence in both local and international clients.  Through Securico, Divine Ndhlukula demonstrates that African women can excel in fields traditionally dominated by men and set world-class standards. Source: https://thebenchmark.com.ng