Connect with us

Technology

Safaricom Business: Unlock Your Entrepreneurial Potential with a Gateway to Connectivity and Digital Transformation

Safaricom Business, through its Thursday Sessions, exemplifies the power of community and continuous learning in the entrepreneurial journey. For entrepreneurs , these sessions are not just about immediate gains but about long-term growth and sustainability

Published

on

Safaricom Business, through its Thursday Sessions, exemplifies the power of community and continuous learning in the entrepreneurial journey.

:For entrepreneurs, these sessions are not just about immediate gains but about long-term growth and sustainability

:A mix of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and practical workshops are offered during the sessions, which are facilitated by seasoned professionals from Safaricom as well as successful business owners and industry experts.

By Charles Wachira

Safaricom Business, an offshoot of the renowned telecommunications giant Safaricom, stands as a testament to the power of connectivity and digital transformation. For entrepreneurs, Safaricom Business is more than just a service provider; it’s a gateway to a world of opportunities and growth. With a robust suite of ICT solutions, it empowers businesses to thrive in the digital age, offering unparalleled support and resources to help entrepreneurs unlock their full potential and navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape.

The Genesis of Safaricom Business

Safaricom Business was conceived with a vision to support and empower businesses in Kenya through robust ICT solutions. Recognizing the evolving needs of the modern enterprise, Safaricom Business offers a comprehensive suite of services ranging from cloud solutions, cybersecurity, and IoT (Internet of Things), to mobile and fixed connectivity. Their mission is simple yet profound: to provide businesses with the tools they need to thrive in a digitally connected world.

The Thursday Sessions: A Hub of Innovation and Networking

Every Thursday, Safaricom Business hosts a special event known as the “Thursday Sessions.” These sessions are more than just meetings; they are incubators of innovation, networking hubs, and learning forums where entrepreneurs gather to exchange ideas, gain insights, and form strategic partnerships.

The Essence of Thursday Sessions

Held at the state-of-the-art Safaricom Business Center, each Thursday session is meticulously curated to address the pressing challenges and opportunities facing businesses today. The sessions are led by seasoned Safaricom professionals, successful business owners, and industry experts, and include a combination of keynote addresses, panel discussions, and hands-on workshops. 

A Day in the Life: The Entrepreneur’s Journey

Let’s follow Jane Mwangi, an ambitious entrepreneur running a tech startup focusing on agricultural solutions, as she navigates her first Thursday Session.

Morning: Inspiration and Insights

Jane arrives at the Safaricom Business Center early, the air buzzing with anticipation. The morning kicks off with a keynote speech by a renowned industry leader who shares insights on the future of digital transformation in Africa. Jane is captivated, taking notes on emerging trends and technologies that could revolutionize her business.

Mid-Morning: Networking and Collaboration

After the keynote, the attendees break for a networking session. Jane mingles with fellow entrepreneurs, exchanging ideas and business cards. She meets a potential collaborator—a data analyst whose expertise could enhance her product’s efficiency. They schedule a follow-up meeting, and Jane feels the spark of a promising partnership.

Afternoon: Workshops and Skill Building

The afternoon is dedicated to workshops. Jane opts for a session on cybersecurity, a critical area she needs to fortify as her business grows. The workshop is hands-on, providing practical solutions that she can implement immediately. She leaves with a newfound confidence in her ability to protect her company’s data.

Evening: Strategic Planning

The final segment of the day is a panel discussion featuring entrepreneurs who have successfully scaled their businesses using Safaricom Business solutions. They share their journeys, the challenges they faced, and how they overcame them. Jane listens intently, her mind racing with ideas on how to apply these lessons to her own venture.

The Benefits of Joining Thursday Sessions

  1. Access to Expertise: Entrepreneurs gain invaluable insights from industry leaders and experts.
  2. Networking Opportunities: The sessions are a melting pot of like-minded individuals and potential collaborators.
  3. Practical Learning: Hands-on workshops equip entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge to tackle real-world challenges.
  4. Strategic Partnerships: The platform fosters an environment where strategic partnerships can flourish.
  5. Market Insights: Attendees get a front-row seat to the latest market trends and technologies.

Jane’s Transformation

For Jane, the Thursday Sessions are more than just weekly meetings; they are a lifeline. With each session, she feels more equipped to steer her startup toward success. The connections she makes and the knowledge she gains become the building blocks of her business’s growth.

Over the months, Jane’s startup evolves. She leverages Safaricom Business’s IoT solutions to enhance her agricultural products, employs advanced cybersecurity measures learned in the workshops, and collaborates with other entrepreneurs she met during the networking sessions. Her business starts to gain traction, attracting investors and expanding its reach.

Those attending physically are required to register in advance, while those who wish to attend virtually can use the Zoom link https://safaricom-co-ke.zoom.us/j/86974220377

Conclusion

Safaricom Business, through its Thursday Sessions, exemplifies the power of community and continuous learning in the entrepreneurial journey. For entrepreneurs like Jane, these sessions are not just about immediate gains but about long-term growth and sustainability. By tapping into the resources and networks provided by Safaricom Business, entrepreneurs can navigate the complexities of the business world with confidence and innovation.

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital business, Safaricom Business and its Thursday Sessions stand as a pillar of support and a catalyst for entrepreneurial success, proving that with the right tools and community, the possibilities are limitless.

Keywords:Safaricom Business ICT Solutions:Thursday Sessions Networking:Digital Transformation Kenya:Entrepreneurial Growth Support:Safaricom Business Center Workshops

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Adani Group’s Foray into Kenya’s Energy Sector: A Strategic Power Play Amid Controversies

The Adani-KETRACO deal offers the potential for major upgrades to Kenya’s power sector, but its long-term success hinges on transparency, environmental responsibility, and compliance with local regulations. Kenya’s past public-private partnerships have faced setbacks due to corruption, mismanagement, and lack of accountability, making oversight crucial for this project.

Published

on

By

The Adani-KETRACO deal, with its high stakes and immense potential, is set to reshape Kenya’s energy landscape and spark wider conversations about the role of international players in the country’s development.

: Adani Energy Solutions partners with Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) to develop key power infrastructure in Kenya, marking the Indian conglomerate’s strategic expansion into East Africa. Despite past controversies, the deal signals major growth potential for Kenya’s energy sector.
By Charles Wachira

Indian billionaire Gautam Adani’s power transmission arm, Adani Energy Solutions, has taken a significant step into Kenya’s energy sector. The company recently inked a deal with the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) to develop, finance, and maintain key power infrastructure in the country. This partnership, a first for the Adani Group in East Africa, is set to bolster Kenya’s efforts to improve its electricity transmission capacity and meet growing energy demands. However, the deal also raises eyebrows due to past controversies surrounding Adani’s business practices and concerns about transparency.

The Significance for Kenya

For Kenya, the agreement with Adani Energy Solutions presents a much-needed boost to its power infrastructure. The country has been grappling with power shortages, frequent blackouts, and an aging grid that hampers industrial growth and investment. By partnering with Adani, KETRACO is looking to upgrade its transmission lines and expand capacity to handle more electricity from both renewable and conventional sources.

Kenya’s energy demand is projected to rise sharply over the next decade due to industrialization and urbanization, and this partnership comes at a critical time. The deal will help Kenya leverage private investment to improve its energy network, a key component of the government’s Vision 2030 economic blueprint.

In a statement following the signing of the agreement, KETRACO Managing Director Anthony Wamukota expressed optimism: This partnership is a milestone for Kenya. We are aligning our energy infrastructure with global standards and taking a significant step toward improving the reliability and efficiency of power transmission in the country.”

Adani Energy Solutions will finance, construct, and maintain several key transmission projects. This includes extending transmission lines to remote areas and building advanced substations to improve grid stability, ensuring that more Kenyans have access to reliable electricity.

A Controversial Player

Despite the potential benefits, the deal has sparked concern among critics of the Adani Group, which has faced accusations of financial mismanagement and environmental violations in other markets. Adani’s business empire came under intense scrutiny in 2023 when U.S.-based short-seller Hindenburg Research accused the group of fraud and stock manipulation, causing a sharp drop in the value of Adani stocks. Though Adani has denied these allegations, the scandal led to increased scrutiny of its operations and governance.

Opposition figures in Kenya have raised concerns about the transparency of the deal with Adani, questioning whether the group’s controversial track record was adequately considered. Some have also pointed to potential environmental risks given Adani’s history with coal mining and power plants, which have attracted criticism for their impact on local communities and ecosystems in India and other countries.

Kenyan energy expert Michael Otieno remarked: “The entry of Adani Energy into Kenya could provide significant upgrades to our power grid, but it also comes with risks. We must ensure that the company adheres to Kenya’s environmental and governance standards, especially given the controversies surrounding its global operations.”

What the Deal Means for Adani

For Adani Energy Solutions, this partnership marks its formal entry into East Africa, expanding the company’s African footprint. The Kenyan project aligns with Adani’s broader strategy of investing in energy infrastructure in emerging markets. It allows the company to capitalize on Africa’s growing demand for electricity and play a role in shaping the continent’s energy future.

Adani has previously invested in Africa, with mixed results. In Egypt, the company invested in a solar energy project as part of the country’s push toward renewable energy. Meanwhile, in South Africa, Adani Group made inroads into the coal sector, though the venture faced stiff opposition from environmentalists and local communities due to concerns over pollution and displacement.

Despite these challenges, Adani’s ability to secure major energy projects in Africa underscores its growing influence. Kenya’s deal is particularly strategic for Adani, as it allows the company to tap into East Africa’s potential and position itself as a key player in the region’s energy transition.

Africa’s Growing Importance for Adani

Adani’s investments in Africa reflect a larger trend of Indian companies seeking opportunities on the continent, especially in sectors like energy, infrastructure, and technology. Africa’s growing middle class, coupled with its vast untapped resources, makes it an attractive destination for investors.

In Mozambique, the Adani Group has invested in coal mining operations, exporting millions of tons of coal to global markets. However, the venture has drawn criticism for its environmental impact and displacement of local communities. In Nigeria, Adani has been exploring energy sector investments, though these plans have not yet materialized on a large scale.

Kenya could serve as a springboard for Adani to deepen its presence in East Africa, where countries like Tanzania and Uganda are also seeking private sector partners to improve their energy infrastructure.

The Road Ahead

While the Adani-KETRACO deal could bring significant upgrades to Kenya’s power sector, the long-term success of the partnership will depend on transparency, environmental stewardship, and adherence to local regulations. Kenya has learned hard lessons from past public-private partnerships that failed to deliver expected results due to corruption, mismanagement, and lack of accountability.

Kenya’s energy future holds immense potential, but it will require careful oversight to ensure that partnerships like the one with Adani Energy Solutions deliver the promised benefits without repeating the mistakes of the past.

As Gautam Adani’s company makes its official entry into Kenya, it opens a new chapter in both the country’s energy ambitions and Adani’s expansion into Africa—a relationship that will be closely watched by stakeholders across the continent.

In the words of Adani Energy Solutions CEO, “This project is part of our commitment to developing sustainable, reliable, and efficient energy infrastructure across Africa. We look forward to contributing to Kenya’s energy goals and playing a role in its growth story.”

With high stakes and significant potential, the Adani-KETRACO deal is poised to shape Kenya’s energy landscape and drive broader discussions on the role of international players in the country’s development.

Keywords:Adani Energy Kenya:Kenya power infrastructure:KETRACO Adani deal:Adani Africa investments:Adani Group East Africa expansion

Continue Reading

Technology

Key Challenges for Safaricom’s M-PESA Global Expansion in Ethiopia

Safaricom must overcome these significant challenges, including regulatory barriers, local competition, infrastructure limitations, and cultural hurdles. Successfully navigating these challenges will determine the long-term success of the service in Ethiopia, while opening the door to broader regional growth.

Published

on

By

The expansion of M-PESA Global into Ethiopia is a bold move with the potential to transform the country’s financial landscape, increase cross-border trade, and drive financial inclusion.

: Safaricom’s M-PESA Global expansion into Ethiopia brings promising opportunities but faces key challenges such as regulatory hurdles, competition from Telebirr, low mobile money penetration, and infrastructure limitations. Overcoming these obstacles will be crucial for driving financial inclusion and cross-border trade

By Charles Wachira

Safaricom’s expansion of M-PESA Global into Ethiopia presents numerous opportunities, there are several challenges that both Safaricom and Ethiopia could face in this process: 

1. Regulatory Environment Government Regulations: Ethiopia has historically had a tightly regulated telecom and financial services sector, with the state maintaining control over key sectors. Although the country has begun opening up to foreign investment, navigating regulatory frameworks and ensuring compliance with local laws can be challenging. Licensing and Policy Delays: The Ethiopian government recently started liberalizing its telecom sector, granting Safaricom Ethiopia a license in 2021. However, delays or complexities in acquiring mobile money licenses, adjusting to new fintech regulations, and securing approvals for cross-border services could slow down expansion plans. 

2. Competition from Ethio Telecom’s Telebirr Local Competition: Ethio Telecom, the state-owned telecom company, has already launched its mobile money platform Telebirr, which has gained significant traction in the local market. Competing with an entrenched player backed by the government will require Safaricom to differentiate its services and offer compelling value propositions. Customer Loyalty: Convincing Ethiopians to switch from a well-known local brand to M-PESA may be difficult, particularly in a market where trust in financial services is still being cultivated. 

3. Low Mobile Money Penetration Financial Literacy and Trust: Ethiopia has relatively low mobile money penetration compared to other African nations. Many people rely on cash transactions and may not be fully familiar with mobile money systems. Building trust and educating users about the benefits of mobile money, especially for cross-border transactions, will be crucial. Slow Adoption in Rural Areas: A significant portion of Ethiopia’s population resides in rural areas where digital and financial literacy may be lower. Reaching and onboarding these populations will require extensive marketing, awareness campaigns, and potentially partnerships with local organizations.

 4. Infrastructure Challenges Limited Mobile and Internet Penetration: Although Ethiopia is rapidly improving its telecom infrastructure, many areas still lack reliable mobile and internet access. Poor network coverage in rural regions may hinder widespread adoption of mobile money services. Digital Infrastructure: Safaricom will need to invest in robust infrastructure to ensure smooth operations, secure transactions, and the capacity to handle increasing demand, especially as the service expands beyond major cities.

 5. Currency and Transactional Barriers Foreign Exchange Controls: Ethiopia has strict foreign exchange controls, and fluctuating exchange rates could pose challenges for cross-border transfers. Safaricom may face difficulties managing currency conversions and ensuring that cross-border transactions are cost-effective for users. Cost of Remittances: Although M-PESA is known for its affordability, remittance fees and conversion costs could still pose barriers for lower-income Ethiopians who rely on remittances from abroad.

 6. Cultural and Behavioral Barriers Resistance to Digital Financial Systems: In some communities, there may be resistance to adopting mobile money services, particularly where cash transactions are deeply ingrained in cultural practices. Safaricom will need to work to build trust and change behavior, showing that mobile money is safe, reliable, and convenient. Linguistic and Cultural Adaptation: Ethiopia is a linguistically diverse country with several ethnic groups. Safaricom may need to tailor its services to cater to various languages and cultural preferences, ensuring that marketing and customer support are accessible to all.

 7. Security Concerns Cybersecurity and Fraud: As mobile money services grow, they often become targets for cyberattacks, fraud, and financial scams. Safaricom will need to implement strong security measures and fraud detection systems to protect users from financial risks, ensuring the integrity of the platform. 

Regulatory Security Standards: Safaricom will also need to comply with Ethiopia’s security and data protection standards, ensuring that customer data and transactions are safeguarded, while aligning with international standards for digital financial services. Conclusion: The expansion of M-PESA Global into Ethiopia is a bold move with the potential to transform the country’s financial landscape, increase cross-border trade, and drive financial inclusion. However, Safaricom must overcome these significant challenges, including regulatory barriers, local competition, infrastructure limitations, and cultural hurdles. Successfully navigating these challenges will determine the long-term success of the service in Ethiopia, while opening the door to broader regional growth.

Keywords:Safaricom M-PESA Global: Ethiopia mobile money challenges: Telebirr competition: Cross-border financial services: Digital financial inclusion

Continue Reading

Technology

Safaricom Ethiopia to Offer Full Coverage in Eastern Ethiopia by End of October

Safaricom Ethiopia’s milestone of achieving full coverage in eastern Ethiopia by the end of October signifies not only the rapid expansion of the company but also a broader shift in Ethiopia’s telecom industry

Published

on

By

Anwar Soussa, Managing Director of Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC, with Safaricom Ethiopia former Chairperson Michael Joseph, Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa, and Vodacom group CEO Shameel Joosub, hold Safaricom sim-cards during the Safaricom Ethiopia service launch in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,

: Safaricom Ethiopia to achieve full coverage in eastern Ethiopia by October 2024, marking a major milestone in its expansion two years after launch

By Charles Wachira

 Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia is set to achieve full coverage of eastern Ethiopia by the end of October, a crucial milestone for the telecom giant, which launched operations in the country just two years ago. This move comes as part of the company’s broader expansion strategy, which aims to provide nationwide service by the time its 15-year operating license reaches the halfway point in 2028.

Executives at Safaricom Ethiopia, the Ethiopian arm of Kenya’s Safaricom PLC, shared this development during a press briefing in Addis Ababa, emphasizing the importance of expanding telecom access to underserved regions. “We are proud to announce that by the end of this month, we will be offering complete coverage across eastern Ethiopia. This is a significant achievement for us, and it marks another important step in our journey to bring connectivity to all Ethiopians,” said Anwar Soussa, CEO of Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia.

Accelerating Expansion

Safaricom Ethiopia was awarded a 15-year license in May 2021 after paying $850 million, making it the first private telecom operator in the country, which had long been dominated by state-owned Ethio Telecom. By October 2022, the company had officially launched its services in Addis Ababa, serving about 1 million customers in the first month.

Since then, the company has been aggressive in expanding its footprint across Ethiopia’s vast landscape, where connectivity had long been a challenge, particularly in rural areas. Today, Safaricom Ethiopia boasts over 4.6 million subscribers across the country, with a focus on delivering affordable, reliable, and high-quality mobile services.

“Our commitment from day one has been to extend coverage to every corner of this beautiful country,” Soussa remarked. “Our investment is not just in infrastructure, but in the people of Ethiopia. We’re working hard to bring digital inclusion to all regions, including those that have historically been left behind.”

Economic and Social Impact

This expansion into eastern Ethiopia, a region with over 25 million people, represents more than just increased telecom access—it’s part of a broader effort to stimulate economic activity. Improved mobile connectivity is expected to enhance local businesses, foster mobile banking, and boost access to digital platforms that can transform sectors like agriculture and education.

According to figures shared by Safaricom Ethiopia, the company has invested over $1 billion in network infrastructure since entering the market. The deployment of 4G and 5G networks, in particular, is expected to drive data usage and enable faster, more efficient communication across the region.

“As we continue to build our network, we are also mindful of the socio-economic impact of our services,” Soussa noted. “Connectivity is key to unlocking new opportunities for businesses and individuals, and we are proud to contribute to Ethiopia’s digital transformation.”

Looking Ahead

Safaricom Ethiopia’s aggressive expansion plan aligns with the Ethiopian government’s ongoing liberalization of the telecom sector, which is seen as a catalyst for the country’s broader economic reforms. The government has indicated that it plans to sell a 40% stake in Ethio Telecom in the coming years, further opening up the market to competition.

By the end of 2024, Safaricom aims to have deployed over 5,000 network towers across Ethiopia, reaching a coverage rate of over 75% of the population. The company is also looking into launching mobile financial services in the near future, pending regulatory approval from the National Bank of Ethiopia.

As Safaricom continues its rapid growth, challenges remain, particularly in regions with difficult terrain and security concerns. However, the company remains committed to its long-term vision for the Ethiopian market.

“Our 15-year license is more than just an entry into a new market—it’s a commitment to Ethiopia’s future. We are here for the long haul, and we’re excited to see what the next decade brings,” Soussa concluded.

With full coverage of eastern Ethiopia imminent, Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia is on course to become a key player in the country’s telecom landscape, reshaping the way millions of Ethiopians connect and communicate.

Conclusion

Safaricom Ethiopia’s milestone of achieving full coverage in eastern Ethiopia by the end of October signifies not only the rapid expansion of the company but also a broader shift in Ethiopia’s telecom industry. With substantial investments and a vision for digital inclusion, Safaricom’s efforts will likely accelerate the country’s economic growth and digital transformation. The success of the company’s rollout will be closely watched, both within Ethiopia and across the African continent, as other nations consider similar liberalization efforts.

Keywords:Safaricom Ethiopia expansion:Full coverage eastern Ethiopia:Ethiopian telecom market:Safaricom 2024 milestone:Telecom industry growth Ethiopia

Continue Reading

Trending