Security is no longer optional for businesses in Kenya. Whether you run a shop on Moi Avenue, a salon in Nyali, a restaurant in Bamburi, or a small office anywhere in the city — CCTV cameras protect your stock, your staff, and your peace of mind. They also help resolve disputes quickly when something happens.
The good news: a solid CCTV system doesn't have to be expensive or complicated. This guide walks you through what you actually need.
Step 1: Figure Out How Many Cameras You Need
This depends on the size and layout of your premises. Here are the common setups we install:
- Small shop / salon (1–2 rooms): 2–4 cameras is usually enough — entrance/exit, till/counter, and a rear area or storage room
- Restaurant or café: 4–6 cameras — entrance, dining area, kitchen, and outdoor seating or parking if applicable
- Office (5–20 staff): 4–8 cameras — reception, main floor, server room or safe, stairwells/corridors
- Warehouse or yard: 6–12 cameras — perimeter, loading area, storage zones, and office
Our advice: It's better to have a few well-placed cameras than many poorly placed ones. We always do a site visit before recommending a number — this is free when you get a quote from us.
Step 2: Choose the Right Camera Type
Dome Cameras
Discreet, wide-angle, ceiling-mounted. Best for indoor spaces — shops, offices, restaurants. Hard to tell which direction they're pointing, which is actually a security advantage.
Bullet Cameras
Visible, long-range, wall-mounted. Best for outdoor use — parking areas, building perimeters, gates. Their visible presence deters crime.
PTZ Cameras
Pan, tilt, zoom — can be controlled remotely. Great for large open areas like warehouses or car parks. More expensive but one camera covers what three fixed ones would.
IP / Wi-Fi Cameras
Connect over your network — no coax cable runs. Easier to install and you view footage from your phone anywhere. We recommend these for most small businesses now.
Step 3: Where to Place Cameras
Placement makes or breaks a CCTV system. Poor placement means cameras that capture ceilings, blurry footage, or blind spots. Here are the non-negotiables:
- Main entrance/exit — always covered, ideally at face height (2–2.5m) pointing toward people coming in
- Point of sale / till / counter — critical for theft prevention and dispute resolution
- Stock room or safe area — high-value goods always need coverage
- Blind corners and corridors — areas staff can't see from the counter
- Parking and outdoor areas — use weatherproof bullet or dome cameras here
Common mistake: Pointing a camera directly at a bright window or light source. This creates silhouettes instead of identifiable footage. Always position cameras so they're not shooting into light.
Step 4: Choose Your Recording System
Your cameras need somewhere to save footage. There are two main options:
- DVR (Digital Video Recorder) — works with traditional analogue cameras. Cheaper upfront, but lower resolution and less flexible. Being phased out.
- NVR (Network Video Recorder) — works with IP cameras. Higher resolution, easier remote viewing, more expandable. This is what we recommend for all new installations.
For most small businesses, a 4-channel or 8-channel NVR with a 1TB or 2TB hard drive gives you 2–4 weeks of continuous recording, which is enough for most situations.
Step 5: Remote Viewing Setup
Modern CCTV systems let you watch live footage and review recordings from your phone — anywhere in the world. This is now standard on even basic installations. You'll need:
- A working internet connection at the premises (even a basic broadband line works)
- The NVR connected to your router
- An app installed on your phone (we configure this for you during installation)
What Does CCTV Installation Cost in Kenya?
As of 2025, typical installed costs for small businesses:
- 2-camera system: KES 18,000 – 25,000 all-in (cameras, NVR, cabling, installation)
- 4-camera system: KES 28,000 – 40,000 all-in
- 8-camera system: KES 50,000 – 80,000 all-in
Prices vary based on camera quality, cable runs required, and whether outdoor weatherproofing is needed. We give free site quotes — no obligation.
Get a Free CCTV Quote for Your Business
Tell us your premises size and we'll recommend the right system and give you a clear all-in price. No hidden costs, professional installation, phone app setup included.