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Mudavadi recalls pioneering reforms that sparked Kenya’s digital revolution
10th November, 2025 10:36 PM
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has reflected on his instrumental role in laying the foundation for Kenya’s digital revolution, as Safaricom marks 25 years since its establishment.
In a statement on Monday, November 10, 2025, Mudavadi said the anniversary evoked memories of Kenya’s bold reforms in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when the country took decisive steps toward liberalising its economy and communications sector.
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“As Safaricom marks twenty-five years of transforming lives, I find myself reflecting on those formative days when we dared to dream of a connected Kenya. It was a time of bold ideas and decisive reforms, when we laid the foundations for a digital revolution that would redefine how our nation communicates, trades, and thrives,” Mudavadi said.
He recounted his tenure as Minister for Finance, during which he spearheaded the liberalisation of the economy by removing price and exchange controls and embedding free-market principles that encouraged private investment and innovation.
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Later, as Minister for Information, Transport and Communications, Mudavadi said he championed the liberalisation of the communications sector, ending the monopoly era and opening Kenya’s airwaves to competition and creativity.
“This shift paved the way for new radio stations, greater freedom of expression, and the birth of mobile communication in Kenya. It was during this transformative period that we licensed Safaricom and Kencell (now Airtel), unlocking a new frontier in how Kenyans connect and transact,” he explained.
Mudavadi recalled working closely with Michael Joseph and the early Safaricom team, describing the company’s growth as a “homegrown success story” that has empowered millions and positioned Kenya as a leader in digital innovation across Africa.
“Today, as I look back, I take pride in how far we have come,a testament to vision, courage, and the enduring spirit of the Kenyan people,” he said.
Safaricom, launched in 2000, has grown into East Africa’s largest telecommunications company, credited with transforming mobile communication, financial inclusion, and digital connectivity through innovations like M-Pesa.
