Safaricom, Kenya Airways join forces to enhance tech services

Telecommunications operator Safaricom and Kenya Airways have partnered to enhance the airline's operational efficiency, including in-flight Wi-Fi, strengthened cybersecurity and elevated customer experience.

The companies said the partnership will also focus on infrastructure inspection, security surveillance, loyalty programs, data science, software development, and aviation innovation in areas such as agriculture.

The two will also collaborate in developing and implementing Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for warehousing, baggage tracking, aircraft materials and Unit Load Devices (ULD), to cover tracking, location, reconciliation and stock taking. ULDs are containers used to load luggage and cargo in aircraft holds, secured to prevent movement during flight.

"By harnessing our combined expertise, we are not only addressing today's challenges but also laying the groundwork for sustainable growth, enhanced connectivity, and transformative innovations that will benefit our customers and communities for years to come," explained Kenya Airways Chief Information and Data Officer Fredrick Kitunga.

Safaricom Head of Business Cynthia Kropac emphasized that the partnership reinforces Safaricom's strategy to deliver better customer experience by connecting people in innovative and new ways.

"By leveraging our respective strengths, Kenya Airways in providing safe journeys and Safaricom in cutting-edge communications and technology - we ensure that our customers remain seamlessly connected throughout their travels," she explained.

Safaricom's strategic partnerships

The Kenyan telecom operator has signed strategic deals in recent years aimed at expanding its reach and connecting its customers.

In August 2023, the telco closed a significant sustainability linked loan with a consortium of four banks in Kenya to strengthen its environmental, social and governance (ESG) agenda.

The biggest operator in Kenya also expanded its operations into Ethiopia in August 2022 and in June this year launched commercial operations in the Tigray region.

Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa. (Source: Safaricom)

In June 2023, Safaricom's operation in Ethiopia closed a deal with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) that included an equity investment of US$157.4 million and a $100 million loan.

The same month, Safaricom announced that the IFC would become an investor in its Global Partnership for Ethiopia consortium to support the ongoing construction and operation of Safaricom's greenfield telecom network in Ethiopia.

In August 2023, Safaricom launched its mobile financial services platform, M-Pesa in Ethiopia, three months after it was given a Payment Instrument Issuer License from the National Bank of Ethiopia.

Safaricom's strategic partnerships with different players have been pivotal in extending its reach and enhancing service delivery across all of its markets.

*Top image is of Safaricom Head of Business Cynthia Kropac and Kenya Airways Chief Information and Data Officer Fredrick Kitunga. (Source: Safaricom.)

— Matshepo Sehloho, Associate Editor, Connecting Africa