The sun hung low over the Safaricom headquarters, casting a warm glow across the bustling complex. Michael Joseph, one of the company’s longest-serving executives, had seen this place evolve from its humble beginnings into a telecommunications giant. As he spoke to Julians Amboko of Business Daily, he couldn’t help but reflect on the journey that had brought him here.
Michael’s resignation from the board sent shockwaves through the investor community. The news came on the heels of several high-profile departures, leaving the company in a state of uncertainty. Reporters clamored for his insights, eager to understand the sentiments that had driven him to step down from his role.
“The turnover on the board has been noticeable, to say the least,” Michael began, his voice tinged with a mix of nostalgia and pride. “But I have faith in Adil Khawaja, our new chairman. Competent and capable, I’m certain he’ll steer this ship to even greater heights.”
His eyes twinkled as he spoke about the company’s current CEO, Peter Ndegwa. “Peter and I have worked closely for three and a half years now. A CEO needs to stand on his own, and I’m confident Peter is more than capable of that. My CEO instincts drive me, you see. I thrive on being in charge, and sometimes being a director can feel a bit constraining.”
A reporter probed, suggesting that his departure might have been orchestrated. Michael shook his head firmly, his demeanor resolute. “I was not forced out; that’s a certainty. The chairman, the CEO, fellow board members, even the government, they all wanted me to stay longer. But sometimes, you know when it’s time to pass the baton. It was a decision I made on my own, with no external pressures.”
He leaned in as the conversation turned political. “Yes, I did consult with President William Ruto, a courtesy more than anything. But let me be clear, no one could have pushed me out of Safaricom. If they tried, they’d have to do a lot more than this.”
As the story unfolded, it became evident that Michael’s decision was rooted in a sense of timing and personal growth. “I’ve been mulling over this for a while,” he confessed. “I’ve been with Safaricom for 23 years, from its inception, through CEO and board chairman roles. It’s time for me to step back from the main board and focus on other endeavors.”
He spoke passionately about his involvement in Safaricom Ethiopia, his role as chairman, adviser, and the time commitment it required. “Exiting the main board gives me the freedom to concentrate on Ethiopia. It’s a challenging market, and I believe my presence there is vital.”
The conversation shifted to concerns about his departure affecting investor sentiment. Michael acknowledged the challenges but remained resolute. “Ethiopia is the big risk for Safaricom. My continued involvement as chairman and adviser should allay those concerns. I was there when we entered Ethiopia, and I owe it to the company to see it through.”
A smile crept onto his face as he was asked about the end of an era. “Safaricom is like a tanker,” he began, his voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. “It’s been steered by different captains, each with their own style. I’ve seen the ship sail through different waters, and now it’s Peter’s turn. He might do things differently, but he’s a strong manager. The era may be ending, but I’m hopeful it’s not the golden era’s end.”
As Michael concluded his interview, he couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride. He was stepping away from the board, but his legacy would continue to shape Safaricom’s future. The sentiment was clear – an end marked not by farewells, but by the continuation of a legacy that had transformed Safaricom into the telecommunications giant it had become.
