Safaricom PLC Chief Executive Officer Peter Ndegwa assured the Members of the National Assembly that the Government of Kenya’s proposed partial divestiture will not disrupt the company’s operations or its commitment to national development.
During his appearance before the joint sitting of the Parliamentary Committees on Finance & National Planning and Public Debt and Privatisation on January 19, 2026, Ndegwa addressed concerns surrounding Sessional Paper No. 3 of 2025, which details the state’s plan to reduce its shareholding in the telecommunications company.
He confirmed that the transaction will not involve a transfer of operational control, a dilution of regulatory authority, or a weakening of governance standards.
“Safaricom acknowledges that the current process reflects the safeguards Parliament intentionally integrated into Kenya’s public finance and privatisation framework,” Ndegwa stated.
He emphasized that the Board, management structure, and decision-making frameworks will remain unchanged, ensuring operational continuity.
Safaricom will maintain its Kenyan identity
Ndegwa also responded to concerns about the company’s identity, assuring lawmakers that Safaricom will uphold its Kenyan culture and brand, including its signature green color.
His comments followed inquiries from Committee Members led by Kuria Kimani regarding the telco’s ability to preserve its Kenyan-centric culture under the proposed deal.
“Safaricom has positively impacted the lives of Kenyans for 25 years. It has been a Kenyan company since its inception. We will retain our brand and the green color our customers cherish. The safeguards included in the management identity agreement ensure the company will continue to reflect a Kenyan identity,” he stated.
Economic impact and stakeholder assurances
Ndegwa also addressed concerns regarding the economic impact of the divestiture on millions of livelihoods supported through Safaricom’s dealer network and strategic partnerships. He assured Members that contractual agreements with dealers will remain legally binding, and Vodacom’s proposed takeover will not affect any contracts.
He expressed confidence that the transition will occur transparently and lawfully, reaffirming the company’s commitment to discipline, accountability, and purpose.
“We remain dedicated to collaborating with this House and to continuing our role in supporting Kenya’s digital, economic, and social transformation,” Ndegwa declared.
The joint committee will continue to scrutinize the Sessional Paper to evaluate the long-term value and implications of the divestiture for the Kenyan taxpayer.
