Supporting One of Africa’s Most Ambitious Innovation Events
Nairobi hosted one of the most ambitious TED Countdown gatherings ever held, a three-day summit bringing together global innovators, business leaders, scientists, policymakers, artists, and activists to accelerate climate crisis solutions. The location was fitting: Kenya generates over 90% of its grid electricity from renewables, with half coming from geothermal energy, and its youthful population is powering a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
With over 600 international guests (including VIPs) and more than 100 production crew on-site, ensuring the safety of participants, reputations, and critical assets was essential. Castor Vali was selected as the event’s exclusive security partner, delivering an integrated solution that allowed every delegate to focus on ideas, not risks.
Planning for Every Possibility
From the outset, Castor Vali conducted a detailed threat assessment and deployed tailored mitigation measures across key risk categories. This approach reflects the blueprint we apply for managing complex events, combining intelligence, planning, and operational readiness to deliver safe and seamless outcomes:
| Threat Category | Key Mitigations |
| Intrusion and Theft | Controlled entry points with QR-coded accreditation, roving patrols, covert asset-protection teams |
| Fire and Medical | Fire-safety audits, dedicated first-aid stations, on-site ambulance, Doctor and medevac partners on standby for transfer to hospitals |
| Civil Unrest and Terrorism | 24/7 intelligence monitoring, dynamic route re-planning, shelter-in-place and full-evacuation contingencies |
| Reputation and Cyber | Media protocols, secure comms for staff and VIP delegations |
World-Class Personnel, Round-the-Clock Coverage
As the exclusive security provider for TED Countdown Summit 2025 – Nairobi, Castor Vali was entrusted with safeguarding every aspect of the event, from proactive risk planning to executive protection and live incident response. Drawing on our proven model for complex operations, we implemented a multi-layered strategy tailored to the event’s unique profile and risk landscape. This included:
- Over 50 executive protection operatives deployed in staggered shifts for 24-hour coverage.
- Dedicated security managers for all key areas: main venue, theatre, breakout spaces, loading bays, and backup power compound.
- Real-time coordination with police, medical providers, and SPEAR mobile response assets from our Regional Headquarters and 24/7 Operations Centre in Nairobi.
Responding in Real Time – Navigating Demonstrations
Midweek demonstrations erupted in Nairobi’s central business district. Castor Vali’s Security Information Service (SIS) provided continuous alerts, enabling the control room to rapidly reroute convoy vehicles and maintain the safety of all off-site Quest visits. Mobile response teams shadowed each convoy, with additional units positioned to support evening dinners at embassy residences and partner venues.
A Safe and Seamless Close
The event culminated with a vibrant off-site social gathering at Nairobi Street Kitchen. The venue was secured as a private event space with executive protection maintained throughout. Access was tightly controlled by our operatives, and mobile response teams were deployed along key transit routes to ensure a secure end to the summit.
Pride in Performance
Delegates praised the professionalism and approachability of every member of the Castor Vali team, from the welcome desk to the executive protection specialists. Our integrated approach ensured that the security not only protected the event but enhanced the overall guest experience.
“The seamless integration of multiple specialities, intelligence, executive protection, crowd management, fire and medical, made TED Countdown Summit 2025 – Nairobi a benchmark for secure, sustainable events. I’m immensely proud of every Castor Vali team member and partner who contributed to its success.”
Kevin Crawford – Country Manager, Castor Vali Africa
Need Expert Security Support for Your Event?
If you’re planning a high-profile or logistically complex event, contact us at info@castorvali.com. Our experienced teams operate across Africa and globally to deliver tailored, intelligence-led security that ensures your event runs safely and smoothly.
