This archive report was first published on 31 July 2019.
July 2, 2019 - The sudden death of Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore has left a leadership vacuum at the telco, with many Kenyans debating who should replace him. Michael Joseph, a former CEO of Safaricom, has been appointed as the interim CEO until the Safaricom Board makes a permanent appointment.
Joseph, 67, has a wealth of experience in the telecommunications industry, having joined the Safaricom board in 2008 and serving as the CEO from 2000 to 2010. He is currently the Director of Mobile Money at Vodafone Group Services Limited and a Strategic Advisor to the Boards of Vodacom Group South Africa, Vodacom Tanzania, Vodacom Mozambique, and Safaricom Limited in Kenya.
However, many Kenyans feel that Joseph is not the right person for the job and are advocating for Sylvia Mulinge, who is currently the CEO of Vodacom Tanzania. Mulinge has been praised for her leadership skills and is seen as a strong contender for the Safaricom CEO position.
Joseph's appointment has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many Kenyans expressing their disappointment and frustration. Some have even questioned the timing of Joseph's appointment, given that Collymore's body has not even been buried yet.
As the Safaricom Board deliberates on a permanent appointment, it remains to be seen who will ultimately take over as the CEO of the telco. One thing is certain, however - the leadership vacuum at Safaricom has sparked a tough battle for the top spot.
