Safaricom Marks 25 Years of Growth From 17,000 to Over 60 Million Customers

Safaricom has celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking a journey of growth and innovation that has seen it expand from just 17,000 subscribers in 2000 to more than 60 million customers across Kenya and Ethiopia today.

Speaking during the Silver Jubilee celebrations, Group Chief Executive Officer Peter Ndegwa said the milestone reflects Safaricom’s commitment to transforming lives through technology and empowerment.

“This year marks our Silver Jubilee. We marked 25 years of transforming lives through innovation and empowerment,” Ndegwa said.

To commemorate the achievement, the company has unveiled three initiatives designed to reward customers and give back to communities. Among them is Shangwe @25, a consumer promotion that will make twenty-five customers millionaires and give each an additional 250,000 shillings to fund a community project of their choice.

“Our first millionaire is Yvonne Wanjiku, a 20-year-old from Kiambu. She intends to use part of her winnings to enrol on a nursing course. We are very happy for her,” Ndegwa said.

Over the next two months, more than five million people, including customers, M-PESA agents, dealers, merchants, and small businesses, will benefit from the promotion.

Safaricom has also introduced the Green Box Initiative to spread festive cheer across Kenya. The initiative will surprise households with gifts such as devices, chickens, and goats to brighten the holiday season.

In addition, the company has launched Citizens of the Future, a program aimed at improving education and shaping opportunities for children in the years ahead.

“These celebrations go beyond prizes; they energise our ecosystem and reaffirm our promise to remain Kenya’s trusted tech company, driven by service, innovation, and empowerment,” Ndegwa said.