By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
Vodacom Group has completed
the acquisition of an additional effective 20% stake in Safaricom, increasing
its shareholding in East Africa's leading telecommunications and financial
services provider to approximately 55%.
The transaction marks a
significant milestone in Vodacom's long-term strategy to strengthen its
presence in Africa's digital and financial services sectors while deepening its
partnership with Safaricom.
Vodacom Group CEO Shameel
Joosub described the acquisition as more than a financial transaction, saying
it represents a long-term commitment to one of Africa's leading technology
companies and the millions of customers, businesses and communities served across
Kenya, Ethiopia and other markets.
The increased investment
comes as Safaricom continues to expand its footprint beyond Kenya, with
operations in Ethiopia and continued growth in digital financial services
through its M-Pesa platform, which has become a key driver of financial
inclusion across the region.
Vodacom said the
strengthened partnership will support efforts to accelerate digital and
financial inclusion, expand innovation across its markets and deliver greater
value to customers and stakeholders.
The company also
acknowledged the contributions of teams from Vodacom Group, Safaricom, Vodafone
Group and other partners whose collaboration helped complete the transaction.
