This archive report was first published on 1 July 2020.
July 1, 2020, marked the one-year anniversary of the passing of Bob Collymore, the former CEO of Safaricom. In a powerful statement, Collymore once said, "Death is inevitable and I have made the decision not to cling on the thought of it because it will eventually come."
Collymore had defeated cancer twice before it returned for the third time, and he accepted his fate with courage and humility. His widow, Wambui Kamiru, revealed that Collymore had chosen a simple exit and had even committed to it in writing.
Collymore's legacy extends far beyond his battle with cancer. He was a pioneer in transparency, making his salary public and setting an example for other CEOs. In 2015, he revealed that he earned an average of Sh9 million a month and had net assets worth $2.7 million.
Collymore's contributions to the corporate scene were recognized with the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) award in 2012. He was also a strong advocate for doing business for good, leaving a lasting impact on Safaricom and the community.
Collymore's life was a testament to the importance of a support system, even for men who are often expected to be strong and self-sufficient. His boys' club, which included prominent figures such as Joshua Oigara and Jeff Koinange, stood by him until the end.
Collymore's humility and love for books, art, and flying helicopters made him a beloved figure. His simple burial and scattering of ashes in Diani, his favorite beach, reflected his commitment to a peaceful and meaningful exit.
