Safaricom marks 25th anniversary as Kenya’s digital cornerstone

Safaricom PLC is marking its Silver Jubilee today, commemorating 25 years since its official launch on October 23, 2000, with a vibrant celebration that underscores its evolution from a trailblazing mobile service provider to a cornerstone of Kenya’s digital economy.

The company, which recently surpassed a historic milestone of 50 million customers on its mobile network, is reflecting on a quarter-century of transformative connectivity that has reshaped lives across the region.

“Today, we are not only celebrating 25 years of existence, but we are also celebrating 25 years of connecting and transforming the lives of millions of Kenyans and across the region,” said Dr. Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom PLC.

“From the first mobile call made on our network in 2000 to becoming a key driver of Kenya’s digital economy, our story has been one of innovation, inclusion, and impact. We are deeply grateful to our customers who have walked this incredible journey of success with us. As we look to the future, we remain committed to driving digital transformation, supporting enterprise, and empowering communities to thrive in a connected world.”

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The telecommunications giant’s revolutionary M-PESA platform, celebrating 18 years this year, stands as a global benchmark for financial inclusion, boasting over 35 million active customers and fueling economic growth and entrepreneurship across East Africa.

Safaricom’s recent rollout of 5G technology has further solidified Kenya’s status as a regional leader in digital innovation, supported by significant investments in network infrastructure to meet growing demand.

Beyond its home market, the company’s bold expansion into Ethiopia in 2022 has borne fruit, with Safaricom Ethiopia reaching over 10 million customers by August 2025, extending innovations like M-PESA to advance that nation’s digital and financial inclusion agenda.

Meanwhile, Safaricom’s commitment to community upliftment shines through the M-PESA Foundation and Safaricom Foundation, which channel substantial resources into health, education, and environmental conservation programs, impacting millions and reinforcing the company’s pledge to sustainable, inclusive growth as it charts its next chapter.