Safaricom has marked a major milestone in its journey as one of Africa’s most transformative telecommunications companies, celebrating 25 years of innovation, connectivity, and impact.
Since its official launch on October 23, 2000, Safaricom has grown from a mobile service provider into a purpose-led technology giant, transforming millions of lives through digital inclusion and financial empowerment.
At its Silver Jubilee celebration, Safaricom’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Peter Ndegwa, reflected on the company’s growth, highlighting the role of innovation, partnerships, and customer trust in shaping its success.
“Today, we are not only celebrating 25 years of existence, but also 25 years of connecting and transforming the lives of millions across Kenya and the region,” Dr. Ndegwa said during the anniversary event.
He described Safaricom’s evolution from facilitating Kenya’s first mobile phone call in 2000 to becoming a leading player in Africa’s digital economy.
Dr. Ndegwa expressed gratitude to customers, partners, and employees, stating that Safaricom’s journey was built on the trust and loyalty of millions who believed in the company’s mission.
Over the years, Safaricom has grown into a continental leader in telecommunications and financial technology, driving inclusion and innovation across Africa.
The company recently reached a historic milestone, surpassing 50 million active customers across its networks. This achievement underscores Safaricom’s deep connection with the communities it serves.
A cornerstone of Safaricom’s success has been M-PESA, its flagship mobile money service, which currently serves over 35 million active users.
M-PESA has redefined access to financial services in Africa, enabling millions of people to send, save, and invest money securely, even in remote regions.
Through M-PESA, Safaricom has fueled economic growth, supported entrepreneurship, and advanced financial inclusion, becoming a model for digital finance worldwide.
Beyond financial services, Safaricom has invested heavily in expanding its network infrastructure to enhance connectivity and digital access for all.
The rollout of 5G technology has positioned Kenya as a regional leader in digital innovation, offering faster speeds and supporting emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things.
This development has opened new opportunities for businesses, education, and healthcare, while also improving access to essential government services.
Safaricom’s expansion into Ethiopia in 2022 marked a new chapter in its regional growth strategy. Within three years, Safaricom Ethiopia surpassed 10 million customers, demonstrating strong demand for reliable digital services.
The company’s entry into Ethiopia also introduced M-PESA to a new market, helping to accelerate financial inclusion and digital transformation in East Africa’s second-largest economy.
As part of its commitment to sustainability and social impact, Safaricom continues to invest in community development through the Safaricom and M-PESA Foundations.
These foundations have supported projects in healthcare, education, and environmental conservation, impacting millions of people across Kenya and beyond.
The company’s health initiatives include the construction of medical facilities, support for maternal health programs, and telemedicine partnerships that expand access to care.
In education, Safaricom has funded scholarships, digital learning tools, and infrastructure development to empower young learners and teachers.
The company’s environmental programs have promoted reforestation, renewable energy use, and climate resilience in vulnerable communities.
Safaricom’s story has become one of Africa’s greatest corporate success narratives, illustrating how technology can drive social progress and economic transformation.
As it looks to the future, the company plans to deepen its digital ecosystem by expanding financial technology, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence-driven solutions.
Dr. Ndegwa reaffirmed that Safaricom’s vision remains focused on empowering communities to thrive in a connected world.
“Safaricom’s journey has only just begun. We are determined to lead Africa’s digital transformation, ensuring that no one is left behind in this new era of connectivity,” he said.
