Michael Joseph has stepped down from his position as Director at Safaricom PLC, effective from August 1, 2023, according to a company statement released on August 8, 2023. The reasons behind his departure were not disclosed. Joseph has held numerous roles within Safaricom since 2000, including General Manager, CEO (twice), Director, and Chairman. He was instrumental in the company’s growth, taking it from less than 18,000 subscribers in 2000 to more than 17 million by his retirement in 2010, making Safaricom East Africa’s most successful company.
Joseph’s efforts significantly impacted the society through the development of innovative products and services, such as M-Pesa, and helped establish Safaricom as a fundamental part of the community. In addition to launching the Safaricom and M-Pesa Foundations, which have contributed to various projects in education, health, culture, and conservation in Kenya, Joseph also played a key role in the launch of the M-Pesa Foundation Academy with the late Bob Collymore. Furthermore, he was instrumental in key strategic moves for Safaricom, including the issue of its first bond, its IPO in 2007, and its expansion into Ethiopia.
Joseph will now focus on his other interests, including his role as Chairman of Kenya Airways and directorships in other organizations, as well as his passion for conservation and community service. The Board expressed gratitude for his dedicated service and commitment to Safaricom and wished him the best for his future endeavors.