This archive report was first published on 2 July 2019.
On July 2, 2019, the business sector in Kenya suffered a significant loss with the passing of Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore. Media personality Caroline Mutoko, a close friend of Collymore's, paid a heartfelt tribute to him, describing him as an 'awesome and caring man.'
According to Mutoko, one of her best memories of Collymore was watching him care for a five-month-old baby. She recalled how he would hold the baby and only return her to her mother when she needed to feed, earning him the nickname 'certified baby whisperer.'
Collymore's commitment to his team, customers, and community was evident in Mutoko's tribute. She praised him for being a leader who cared deeply about the welfare of those around him. 'He cared that events started on time,' she said, 'he cared that his customers were happy, and he cared that his friends were okay.'
Collymore's decision to stay on as CEO of Safaricom, despite not needing a job, was a testament to his commitment to the company and its people. Mutoko described Safaricom as 'family' to Collymore, and he wouldn't leave his family behind.
Caroline Mutoko also consoled Wambui, Collymore's widow, saying, 'Wambui, you brought out the best in Bob, and our God, who makes no mistakes, put you into his life at this time for this journey. What a ride! My commitment stands – I've got your back.'
