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Morris Mbetsa: Creator Of Africa’s First Flying Drone Taxi

IT-Innovator Morris Mbetsa in a reflective mode at his Nairobi office.

Published

7 years ago

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Morris Mbetsa

Morris Mbetsa,33, is arguably Kenya’s contrarian manufacturer, widely known for creating Africa’s first drone flying taxi and including abandoning his university studies at a local institution and relocating to the US. He has also operated from Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and travelled to China to scour for opportunities to sell his hardware. This guy is daring. Now for the very first time, he reveals, that his Nairobi-based company Numeral IOT is in the last stages of a discussion that will lead to a  merger with a global brand.Here he goes ahead to field questions fixated on his entrepreneurial journey thus far.  

By Charles Wachira

1)In 2018 you manufactured Africa’s first drone flying taxi which aimed to manoeuvre the apparent challenge of traffic jams witnessed on generic African roads including enhancing the delivery of critical products and services like medicare. How was the innovation treated by the Kenyan authorities and generally the world? And how is the contraption faring in the marketplace today and what challenges if any have you faced in selling the product in the market?

Morris Mbetsa – In general, the development of drone technology was met with both excitement and concern from regulatory authorities and the public. On the one hand, our drone offered a range of exciting possibilities for enhancing efficiency and improving access to critical services like healthcare and logistics in areas where traditional infrastructure was lacking. On the other hand, there were concerns about safety, privacy, and potential misuse of this technology.

The project was a labor of love inspired by a desire to better the lives of us black people.

As I started the project, I quickly realized that it would require far more funds than I had anticipated. I didn’t have the funds to invest in it myself at the time. As a result, I was constrained to fund the project through grants and well-wishers.

We pitched the project to a couple of investors, including some high-profile ones, but it was deemed too risky and ahead of its time. While the investors were impressed with the project’s potential, they did not believe it was a sound investment.

Despite our efforts to secure funding, we couldn’t continue with the project without additional investors, prompting me to transition my focus to more practical devices that could be monetised.

I learned a lot from the project and it made me better prepared to approach future endeavors with a more comprehensive understanding of the industry and its challenges.

2)Your company which you launched in 2019 was known as Numeral IOT -please explain how you came up with the name. 

Morris Mbetsa -We chose the name because it reflects the technological aspect of our company. The choice of the word “numeral” suggests a focus on numbers, which are fundamental to binary computer languages, and reflects the digital nature of our company. 

The addition of “IoT” to the name also shows our involvement in the Internet of Things, a rapidly growing field that involves connecting physical devices to the Internet to enable them to communicate with each other and with other systems.

Overall, the name Numeral IoT conveys a sense of innovation and technological advancement.

3) What stirred you towards the road leading to the ecosystem that you operate in?

Morris Mbetsa- Since I was a child, I always had an interest in this field. I’m fascinated by electronics’ inner workings and enjoy tinkering with them. Over time, I realized that most of the hardware we use in Africa is imported from other countries and is not always designed with the African market in mind.

This sparked a childhood ambition of mine to establish a factory where I could manufacture critical electronics and make them available to the African masses. By doing so, I believe we will be able to bridge the digital divide and provide more people with access to modern technology that will help them improve their lives.

Furthermore, I believe that IoT is the technological future and a critical component of the digital transformation that is taking place across industries. By incorporating IoT into normal hardware , we can create innovative products that are more intelligent, connected, and better suited to meet the needs of the African market

4)Before setting up the company you travelled to China for some specialized training. How did you manage to pay off the fees required? Also please tell our readers how and why you made contact with that particular Asian country and what you learnt from there that has proved to be useful with your entrepreneurial career so far. 

Morris Mbetsa -I travelled to China because my business partner at that time and I were working on a project together, my trip was paid for by his company. The trip’s goal was to look into manufacturing opportunities for our hardware in China, which was the world’s undisputed factory at the time.

While I was there, I was able to observe firsthand how the factories operated and how the manufacturing process worked. One thing that struck me was that most of the factory workers were low-skilled labourers whose jobs didn’t require traditional school knowledge.  This gave me the inspiration to work with my African people and provide employment opportunities for them.

In addition to gaining inspiration for my manufacturing processes, I was able to make valuable connections with chip and component suppliers, who are crucial for our manufacturing. These connections have been beneficial in securing the necessary supplies and components for our manufacturing operations.

5)You once set base in Nigeria please explain what led to the relocation and why you settled for that particular West African state.

 Morris Mbetsa -I moved to Nigeria because my business partner at that time had ties in Nigeria and we saw an opportunity in the market. At that time, Nigeria had implemented speed governor regulations in the country, which created a demand for speed governors.

We saw an opportunity to produce speed governors for the Nigerian market, and my business partner’s ties in the country made it a logical choice for us to set up our operations there. This allowed us to tap into the local market and also take advantage of the regulations that had been put in place.

6) You were admitted to The Technical University of Kenya to pursue a degree in electrical engineering in …. but you quit after a few months reportedly because you got bored of the theoretical nature of the course and eventually moving the United States for a short course courtesy of Barack Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). You also attended Notre Dame University based there where you underwent studies in aeronautical training. Please explain how different the teaching is comparing the US and Kenya and how it has contributed to your entrepreneurial journey. 

Morris Mbetsa -In my opinion, my education in the United States was particularly eye-opening, especially in comparison to my education in Kenya. I discovered that the education system in the United States was more practical and project-based, allowing me to interact with real-world professionals from companies such as Microsoft and IBM. This gave me hands-on experience and allowed me to develop valuable skills that I could apply in the real world.

Furthermore, I discovered that the education system in the United States was full of sharp, like-minded individuals who were as smart and forward-thinking as I was. I was able to connect with people who shared similar interests and goals.

Through my education in the United States, I was able to make genuine connections with people who have remained influential in both my professional and personal lives to this day.

7)To date, what has your company innovated and of those gadgets which one is your signature innovation and why? 

Morris Mbetsa -Our company has produced several products including speed governors, trackers, smart home devices such as smart bulbs and locks, security, and game-changing smart meters for gas, water, and electricity. 

The smart meters are revolutionary and unique in their features and capabilities. They offer solutions that are not available on the market and have opened doors for our company. Due to our local manufacturing and the unique features of our smart meters, we have received significant interest and partnership opportunities from across West Africa, East Africa, and North Africa
8) Do you have a research and development unit within your organisation and if in the affirmative, on average how long does it take to create a product? Or is your organisation manufacturing DNA a creature of knee-jerk reactions?

 Morris Mbetsa -Our RND (Research and Development) process is tailored to the scope, budget, and level of complexity of each project. Our team approaches research and development in a flexible and adaptable manner.

We base our decisions on large-order demands. We prioritize, however, understanding the needs and pain points of industry clients and organizations.

Before producing a working prototype, the RND process typically takes at least three months. We take a methodical and thorough approach to R&D, which is critical for ensuring the final solution’s quality and feasibility.


9) What new product are you working on currently?

 Morris Mbetsa -our team is currently working on large-scale projects ranging from the LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) to solar industries. This project is related to developing solutions that combine these two energy sources, to create more efficient and sustainable energy solutions for disadvantaged communities

10)How many employees do you have under your payroll and how much do you estimate your company is worth in dollar terms? 

Morris Mbetsa – We are amid partnerships and confidential agreements, so kindly excuse me from answering these questions for the time being.
11) Are your products only to be found in Kenya and how do you market your creations? 

Morris Mbetsa -Our company offers services to clients from Tanzania, Liberia, Ethiopia, in addition to Kenya. We have a global perspective and are not geographically restricted.

Our company has worked with large organizations in the past and is well-equipped to handle complex projects and challenges.

12)Please tell us about the talk in the grapevine regarding talks coalescing around mergers and partnerships involving Numeral IOT

Morris Mbetsa -I can’t say much about this because the process is ongoing but all I can say is be on the lookout for the name Spearhead. inc

13)In the next five years where do you see you envisage your company?

Morris Mbetsa -To become one of, if not the largest electronics manufacturer in Africa, with a strong focus on IoT technology. We envision having one of the biggest IoT platforms on the continent, which will enable Africans to get analytics on their connected devices at very low costs. This is a significant goal that could have a major impact on the development and adoption of IoT technology in Africa.

We plan to accelerate the transition to IoT in Africa by having factories across the continent.

We are keen on investing in infrastructure and resources that will support the growth and development of IoT technology in Africa. 

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How Safaricom’s Sh15 Billion Sustainability Loan Will Be Repaid

Published

1 week ago

on

September 30, 2024

By

Dilip Pal Chief Finance Officer, Safaricom

:Safaricom’s Sh15 billion sustainability-linked loan exemplifies its dual commitment to financial growth and environmental responsibility. This innovative financing structure ties repayment not only to financial performance but also to specific sustainability targets. By expanding its network in underserved areas, improving energy efficiency, leveraging M-Pesa’s growth, and developing tailored digital solutions for SMEs, Safaricom is poised to enhance revenue and achieve significant cost savings. This strategic approach not only ensures effective loan repayment but also positions Safaricom as a leader in sustainable telecom practices across Africa.

By Charles Wachira

Safaricom’s Sh15 billion sustainability loan is structured as a sustainability-linked loan, meaning its repayment will depend not just on the company’s financial performance but also on achieving specific sustainability targets. While the exact repayment terms of the loan have not been publicly disclosed, we can infer several key factors that will guide the repayment process based on similar sustainability loans and Safaricom’s business model.

1. Revenue Growth from Expanded Operations

A significant portion of the loan will be directed toward expanding Safaricom’s network infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas. This expansion will allow Safaricom to tap into new customer bases, especially in rural and peri-urban regions that are currently underserved by telecom services. By extending its 4G and 5G networks, Safaricom can expect to increase its subscriber numbers, generate more revenue from data services, and boost its mobile money business, M-Pesa.

As more customers come online and use Safaricom’s services, including mobile data, digital financial services, and enterprise solutions, the company’s revenue streams will grow. These additional revenues will provide the financial cushion needed to repay the loan.

2. Cost Savings Through Energy Efficiency

A key focus of the sustainability loan is to improve energy efficiency and reduce the company’s carbon footprint. By investing in renewable energy sources such as solar panels at its base stations and upgrading its data centers to be more energy-efficient, Safaricom will reduce its operational costs.

Telecom infrastructure is energy-intensive, and switching to renewable energy or more efficient systems can lead to substantial savings over time. These cost savings will help the company maintain healthy profit margins, providing additional funds that can be allocated toward repaying the loan.

3. Sustainability Performance Targets

Like other sustainability-linked loans, Safaricom’s repayment terms are likely tied to achieving specific sustainability performance targets (SPTs). These may include reducing carbon emissions, expanding digital inclusion in underserved areas, and promoting gender diversity in its workforce. If Safaricom meets or exceeds these targets, it may benefit from lower interest rates or other financial incentives tied to the loan, reducing the overall cost of borrowing and making it easier to repay.

Failure to meet these targets, on the other hand, could lead to penalties such as higher interest rates, increasing the cost of the loan. However, given Safaricom’s established track record of meeting sustainability goals, it is expected to perform well in this area, minimizing any financial risks associated with the loan.

4. M-Pesa’s Growing Contribution

M-Pesa, Safaricom’s highly successful mobile money platform, continues to be a major driver of revenue and profitability for the company. As the telco expands its reach into rural areas and introduces more digital financial services, M-Pesa is expected to grow even further. With new services like business loans, savings products, and cross-border payments, M-Pesa will generate additional revenue streams that can be used to service the loan.

Furthermore, as digital payments and e-commerce adoption grow in Kenya and across Africa, M-Pesa’s contribution to Safaricom’s bottom line will continue to rise, ensuring steady cash flow to support the repayment of the Sh15 billion loan.

5. Enterprise and SME Solutions

Safaricom’s focus on developing tailored digital solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and corporate clients will also drive revenue growth. By offering services such as cloud computing, cybersecurity solutions, and IoT (Internet of Things) platforms, Safaricom is positioning itself as a key partner for businesses looking to digitize their operations.

The revenues generated from these business solutions will help diversify Safaricom’s income streams and contribute to the repayment of the loan. As more SMEs embrace digital transformation, the demand for these services is expected to grow, further strengthening Safaricom’s financial position.

6. Potential Green Financing Opportunities

Safaricom’s commitment to sustainability and its demonstrated ability to secure sustainability-linked loans position the company well for future green financing opportunities. By meeting its sustainability targets, Safaricom will enhance its attractiveness to ESG-conscious investors, which could lead to further financing opportunities at favorable terms.

Should Safaricom require additional funding to complete its sustainability projects or expand its operations, it could secure green bonds or additional sustainability loans, potentially at lower interest rates. This would help the company manage its debt portfolio more effectively while staying on track with repayment plans.

7. Strong Cash Flow from Core Telecom Business

Finally, Safaricom’s core telecom business remains robust, with consistent revenue from voice services, mobile data, and SMS. Even though the telecom industry is moving toward data-driven services, Safaricom’s diverse revenue base ensures steady cash flow. This core business will continue to generate the bulk of the revenue needed to repay the loan, ensuring that Safaricom remains in a strong financial position throughout the repayment period.

Conclusion: A Balanced and Strategic Repayment Plan

Safaricom’s Sh15 billion sustainability loan is structured to align with both its business growth and sustainability goals. The company will repay the loan through a combination of increased revenues from expanded telecom services, cost savings from energy efficiency, and innovations in digital financial solutions. By achieving its sustainability targets, Safaricom is also likely to benefit from lower interest rates and other financial incentives, making the loan more affordable to service.

Given Safaricom’s strong financial performance, commitment to sustainability, and track record of innovation, the company is well-positioned to meet its repayment obligations while continuing to grow and expand its impact across Kenya and the region. The loan serves as a testament to Safaricom’s leadership in both business and sustainability, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s most successful telecom operators.

Keywords:Sustainability-linked loan:Energy efficiency cost savings:M-Pesa revenue growth:Telecom network expansion:Sustainability performance targets

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Safaricom Secures Additional Sh15 Billion Sustainability Loan: A Deep Dive into the Future of Telecom Business in Kenya

Safaricom has long been a leader in corporate sustainability in Kenya, using the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to guide its initiatives in clean energy, gender equality, decent work, and economic growth. The Sh15 billion sustainability loan will accelerate and expand these efforts, increasing their impact.

Published

1 week ago

on

September 30, 2024

By

Karen Basiye, Director of Sustainable Business and Social Impact at Safaricom

: Safaricom Secures Sh15 Billion Sustainability Loan: Paving the Way for a Greener Telecom Future in Kenya

    By Charles Wachira

In its continuous drive towards sustainability and financial growth, Safaricom, Kenya’s largest telecommunications provider, has secured an additional Sh15 billion loan aimed at furthering its sustainability agenda. This is not the first time Safaricom has tapped into such financing; the telco previously received a Sh20 billion sustainability-linked loan from international lenders in 2022. This latest funding marks another step in Safaricom’s journey towards aligning its business strategy with sustainability goals while tapping into the growing demand for green investments. But what does this money intend to achieve? What kinds of clients are targeted, and how will this affect the telco’s operations and the broader business landscape?

The Sustainability Loan: What It Entails

Sustainability loans are financial instruments that provide companies with capital to pursue projects aimed at creating positive social, environmental, or economic impacts. The conditions for these loans typically include performance metrics related to sustainability, such as reducing carbon emissions, promoting social inclusion, or implementing renewable energy initiatives. If the borrowing company achieves or exceeds these targets, it may benefit from reduced interest rates or other financial incentives.

For Safaricom, this Sh15 billion loan is intended to fund a variety of initiatives that will solidify the company’s role as a socially responsible corporate entity while boosting its competitive edge in Kenya’s fast-evolving telecom industry. According to Safaricom, the funds will be directed toward projects aimed at reducing the company’s carbon footprint, improving energy efficiency, expanding digital inclusion, and fostering socioeconomic development in under-served areas.

A Commitment to Sustainability

Safaricom has been leading the way in corporate sustainability in Kenya for years. It has adopted the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework for its corporate social responsibility initiatives, focusing on areas such as affordable and clean energy, gender equality, decent work, and economic growth. With the additional Sh15 billion sustainability loan, Safaricom aims to accelerate its existing programs, making them more impactful and far-reaching.

One of the major areas Safaricom is likely to focus on is the transition to renewable energy. The company has already committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and this loan will help finance the installation of solar panels at its base stations across the country, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. By switching to renewable energy sources, Safaricom aims to cut its operational costs while contributing to Kenya’s national goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Additionally, the loan will enable Safaricom to improve energy efficiency in its data centers, which are the backbone of its digital services. Modernizing these facilities will reduce energy consumption, thus lowering operational expenses and enhancing environmental sustainability.

Targeting Underserved Communities

While environmental sustainability is a key focus of the loan, Safaricom is also committed to promoting digital inclusion, especially in rural and marginalized areas of Kenya. These regions often suffer from limited or non-existent access to reliable telecommunications and internet services, further widening the digital divide.

By using the funds to expand its 4G and 5G network infrastructure into underserved areas, Safaricom aims to bring high-speed internet connectivity to millions of Kenyans who are currently unconnected or under-connected. This initiative will enable more people to access digital services, including mobile money, online education, e-commerce, and telemedicine. In turn, this will spur economic growth in these regions by allowing small businesses to participate in the digital economy and providing local communities with access to essential services.

In fact, Safaricom’s M-Pesa platform has been a lifeline for many Kenyans, and expanding internet coverage will open new opportunities for even more people to utilize the platform for banking, savings, loans, and payments. With the additional loan, Safaricom plans to extend M-Pesa services to underbanked populations, increasing financial inclusion across Kenya. This aligns with the telco’s vision of transforming lives by providing tools that can boost the economic empowerment of individuals, particularly in low-income areas.

Targeting Key Client Segments

Safaricom is Kenya’s leading telecommunications provider, boasting over 42 million subscribers as of 2024. While it continues to serve a broad spectrum of individual consumers, the telco is also increasingly focusing on corporate and business clients, especially in the small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) segment.

The company’s Safaricom Business division is expected to be a major beneficiary of the additional sustainability loan. By targeting SMEs, Safaricom aims to offer tailored solutions that address the unique challenges faced by this sector, including digital transformation, connectivity, and financial services. The funds will be used to develop products that support the digitization of SMEs, enabling them to integrate e-commerce platforms, manage digital payments, and utilize cloud services for operational efficiency.

Another key client segment Safaricom will likely focus on is large corporations and government institutions. By providing advanced solutions in Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, and cybersecurity, Safaricom is positioning itself as a strategic partner for businesses looking to enhance their digital capabilities. The sustainability loan will help the company invest in these technologies, ensuring it stays ahead of competitors in delivering comprehensive digital solutions to enterprise clients.

A Sustainable Future for the Telecom Industry

The telecom industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in Kenya, driven by increasing demand for mobile services, internet connectivity, and digital platforms. As competition intensifies with the entry of new players like Airtel, Telkom Kenya, and international firms like Google (through its Loon project), Safaricom needs to innovate continuously to maintain its leadership position.

The additional Sh15 billion loan will play a crucial role in ensuring Safaricom remains competitive in this rapidly evolving landscape. It will not only fund the expansion of network infrastructure but also support the company’s transition to a more sustainable business model, which is critical as global pressure mounts on companies to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

Safaricom’s focus on sustainability could also enhance its appeal to environmental, social, and governance (ESG)-conscious investors. With the global shift towards sustainable investments, companies that demonstrate strong ESG performance are increasingly attractive to institutional investors and funds. By securing this loan and committing to sustainability, Safaricom is likely to attract more green financing opportunities, which could further bolster its growth.

Why Safaricom’s Strategy is Good for Kenya’s Economy

Safaricom’s efforts to align its business model with sustainability goals are not only good for the environment but also for the Kenyan economy. As one of the country’s largest companies, Safaricom plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth. The expansion of its network infrastructure will create jobs in both the construction and telecommunications sectors, boosting local economies in underserved areas.

Furthermore, Safaricom’s focus on digital inclusion aligns with Kenya’s broader Vision 2030 development agenda, which aims to transform the country into a middle-income economy through technological innovation and inclusive growth. By providing affordable digital services to rural and marginalized communities, Safaricom is helping to bridge the digital divide, enabling more people to participate in the modern economy.

The Investment Climate in Kenya’s Telecom Sector

Kenya remains an attractive destination for telecom investment, offering several advantages that set it apart from other markets in the region:

  1. High Mobile Penetration: Kenya has one of the highest mobile penetration rates in Africa, with over 59 million mobile subscriptions. This provides a strong foundation for telecom companies to grow and expand their services.
  2. Technological Adoption: The Kenyan population has a high level of digital adoption, with millions of people using mobile money, internet services, and digital platforms for daily transactions. Safaricom’s success with M-Pesa is a testament to the country’s willingness to embrace new technologies.
  3. Stable Regulatory Environment: Kenya’s telecom sector is governed by clear regulations, which provide a stable business environment for investors. The Communications Authority of Kenya has created a level playing field for both local and foreign telecom operators, encouraging competition and innovation.
  4. Government Support for Innovation: The Kenyan government is committed to supporting the growth of the digital economy, offering incentives for investments in ICT infrastructure and encouraging private sector participation in national development goals. Initiatives like the Konza Technopolis project highlight the government’s vision for a technology-driven future.
  5. Growing Middle Class: Kenya’s expanding middle class presents a significant opportunity for telecom companies, as more consumers seek advanced digital services and higher-quality mobile experiences.

Conclusion: Safaricom’s Sh15 Billion Sustainability Loan—A Win for Business and Society

Safaricom’s additional Sh15 billion sustainability loan is not just a financial boost; it represents a commitment to creating a sustainable and inclusive future for Kenya’s telecommunications sector. By focusing on reducing its carbon footprint, expanding digital access to underserved communities, and driving digital transformation for SMEs, Safaricom is positioning itself as a leader in both business innovation and corporate responsibility.

As Safaricom continues to invest in sustainability, it sets a powerful example for other businesses in Kenya and across the region, proving that profitability and social responsibility can go hand in hand. For investors, Safaricom’s forward-looking strategy presents a compelling case for long-term growth in a rapidly evolving telecom landscape. The future looks bright, not just for Safaricom, but for the millions of Kenyans who stand to benefit from its sustainable business model.

Keywords:Safaricom sustainability loan:Kenya telecom green financing:Digital inclusion in rural Kenya:Safaricom renewable energy projects:SME digital transformation Kenya

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Safaricom Hires Florence Nyokabi as New HR Chief: A Strategic Move Amid Growing Corporate Ambitions

Florence Nyokabi will focus on keeping Safaricom’s workforce agile and innovative as the company diversifies its services. She’ll be responsible for crafting strategies that boost employee engagement and drive productivity in a highly competitive market.

Published

1 week ago

on

September 29, 2024

By

Florence Nyokabi joins Safaricom during a pivotal transformation, tasked with leveraging her HR expertise to foster an employee-first culture, streamline talent management, and align the workforce with Safaricom's evolving goals in East Africa. Her key challenge will be to not only maintain but also elevate Safaricom's reputation as a top employer while the company expands into new markets and industries.

:In a major leadership shift, Safaricom has named Florence Nyokabi as its new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), a key appointment as the telecom giant continues to expand its presence in East Africa, especially in Ethiopia. With a strong background in HR leadership at Absa Bank Kenya, Nyokabi brings valuable expertise in talent management, workforce efficiency, and inclusion. She succeeds Paul Kasimu, who played a pivotal role in transforming Safaricom’s HR operations, leaving a legacy of modernized HR practices. Safaricom now looks to Nyokabi to drive employee engagement, manage growth, and support its technological innovation as it ventures into new sectors like financial services and e-commerce.

 By Charles Wachira

In a significant leadership change, Safaricom has appointed Florence Nyokabi as its new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Nyokabi’s entry into the role comes at a pivotal moment as the telecommunications giant continues to expand its footprint across East Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, and seeks to maintain its position as Kenya’s leading tech-driven employer.

Background and Experience Florence Nyokabi steps into the role with extensive HR experience, having previously worked as the Chief Human Resources Officer at Absa Bank Kenya. At Absa, she was instrumental in spearheading key talent management strategies, enhancing workforce efficiency, and driving a culture of inclusion. Her leadership in managing human capital played a crucial role in navigating the bank’s successful rebranding from Barclays to Absa, a transformative period marked by cultural shifts and the need for robust employee engagement.

Her experience in banking, especially during times of transition, aligns well with Safaricom’s current trajectory, as the company undergoes significant operational and strategic changes. Safaricom is expanding its services beyond mobile telecommunications into areas such as financial services (M-Pesa), health, and e-commerce, requiring the kind of HR leadership that can handle scaling teams, talent acquisition, and aligning employee skills with the company’s evolving goals.

Replacing Paul Kasimu Nyokabi takes over from Paul Kasimu, who served as Safaricom’s HR Chief for nearly five years before his departure in early 2024. Kasimu was instrumental in fostering a culture of agility and innovation within the company, and he successfully implemented the “Safaricom Agile Transformation” initiative, which aimed to streamline operations and promote a flexible working environment. His tenure also saw Safaricom become one of the most attractive employers in Kenya, consistently ranked high in employee satisfaction and corporate reputation surveys.

Kasimu stepped down from the position to pursue personal interests, leaving behind a legacy of modern HR practices that Florence Nyokabi will now have to build upon. Under his leadership, Safaricom pioneered employee wellness programs and diversity initiatives, including efforts to ensure gender balance in leadership positions.

What Safaricom Will Seek From Nyokabi Safaricom’s ambitions in Ethiopia, where it launched services in 2022, have placed significant demands on its workforce. The company is seeking to expand its operations and replicate its success in Kenya, which necessitates strong leadership in human resources to manage recruitment, retain top talent, and foster a cohesive work culture across borders.

Nyokabi’s role will likely focus on ensuring that Safaricom’s workforce remains agile and innovative as the company diversifies its service offerings. She will be tasked with developing strategies that maintain high levels of employee engagement while driving productivity in an increasingly competitive market. Moreover, Safaricom is likely to depend on her expertise to manage the integration of new technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation, which are reshaping the future of work globally.

Her background in inclusion and employee development will also be vital as Safaricom continues to emphasize diversity and inclusion within its workforce. The company has been a leader in promoting women to leadership roles, and with Nyokabi at the helm of HR, it is expected to continue being a trailblazer in equitable employment practices.

Furthermore, as Safaricom expands geographically and diversifies into new industries, Nyokabi’s ability to handle change management will be critical. Safaricom will be looking to her to ensure a smooth transition as it implements new business models and to cultivate a workforce that is both technically proficient and adaptable.

The Road Ahead Florence Nyokabi’s appointment comes at a time when Safaricom is on a path of strategic transformation. With her extensive HR experience and leadership acumen, Safaricom will look to her to drive an employee-first culture, ensure seamless talent management, and align the workforce with the company’s broader goals in East Africa’s fast-evolving market. Her challenge will be not only to maintain Safaricom’s reputation as an employer of choice but also to enhance it as the company navigates new territories and industries.

As Safaricom pushes forward with its ambitious plans, Nyokabi’s leadership will be integral in ensuring that its human capital remains a key driver of innovation and success.

Keywords:Safaricom leadership change:Florence Nyokabi Chief Human Resources Officer:Safaricom Ethiopia expansion:Safaricom talent management strategy:Workforce diversity and inclusion at Safaricom

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