Safaricom is scaling up its national agenda for entrepreneurship, skill development, and digital inclusion, activating thousands of young people and business owners across Kenya through bold, on-the-ground platforms.
Youth Skill Building – Greater Western Region
Through Safaricom Hook, the M-PESA Sokoni Caravan made stops in Siaya, Vihiga, and Kisumu, where over 2,000 young people were trained in technical skills such as plumbing, hospitality, fashion, and electricals. Graduates received completion certificates and starter kits to spark entrepreneurial journeys.
“We want young people to walk out of school not just with knowledge, but with real tools they can use to start a business, get a job, or pursue their passion,” said Fawzia Ali-Kimanthi, Chief Consumer Business Officer, Safaricom PLC.
“That’s what Safaricom Hook is all about—giving youth the mindset, the opportunities, and the support they need to believe in themselves and thrive.”
Boda Boda Youth Forum – Vihiga County
A targeted session in Mbale brought 250 boda boda riders for training in road safety, first aid, and health awareness, delivered in partnership with NTSA and the Kenya Red Cross.
“We appreciate Safaricom for bringing this training to us. It shows they understand what young people in smaller towns go through daily,” shared James Mukoya, Boda Boda Chairperson, Mbihi Stage.
Creative Talent & Monetisation – Kisumu County
At CITAM Hall in Nyalenda, 200 youth showcased their creative skills in spoken word, dance, drama, and visual arts, receiving mentorship on monetising their talents and increasing digital visibility.
Youth aged 10–24 can join Safaricom Hook by downloading the app or dialling *555# for access to events, content, and growth opportunities.
Entrepreneurship Acceleration – Mt. Kenya Region
In Meru, more than 100 entrepreneurs participated in the Grow with Safaricom Business forum, under the theme “Fueling financial growth through innovation.” The session focused on bridging innovation gaps for rural businesses and scaling ventures sustainably.
“Innovation has often been viewed as a luxury, rather than a necessity, and many businesses—especially those outside Nairobi—have been left behind in the digital transformation conversation,” said Frankline Okata, Acting Chief Enterprise Business Officer, Safaricom PLC.
“At Safaricom Business, we focus on connecting, enabling, protecting, and transforming businesses.”
The Meru session follows a similar one in Nanyuki, bringing total beneficiaries in the region to over 250. Nationally, MSMEs employ 80% of Kenya’s workforce, yet nearly half fail by year three—highlighting the urgent need for initiatives like this.
Launched in March 2024, the Grow with Safaricom Business forum has reached over 1,000 businesses in the Coast, Nairobi, Rift, Greater Western, and Mt. Kenya regions, empowering SMEs to adopt digital tools, elevate customer experience, and build strong brands.
