Kenyans participating in public consultations on the proposed sale of the government’s stake in Safaricom Plc have expressed broad support for the divestiture, viewing it as a way to fast-track infrastructure development and other critical national projects.
The proposal involves the sale of 15 per cent of Safaricom shares to Vodafone at Sh34 per share, with the government currently holding 35 per cent of the company, valued between Sh280 billion and Sh300 billion.
Residents said the move could unlock significant funding for stalled development initiatives while avoiding additional borrowing or tax hikes.
Consultations held in counties including Kitui, Nairobi, and Nakuru highlighted the need for strong safeguards to ensure that the proceeds are used effectively.
Participants told the National Assembly’s Joint Committees on Finance and National Planning, and Privatisation and Public Debt, that Parliament must pass legislation to ring-fence the funds and prevent misuse.
Supporters described the divestiture as a strategic recalibration of state assets, noting that the sale could raise around Sh200 billion to fund infrastructure projects, housing, and social programmes.
Speaking during the consultations, Moro MP Kimani Kuria said the government opted to sell the shares to Vodafone, a long-term sector partner, rather than an unfamiliar buyer, adding that the move would reduce debt inherited from previous administrations and accelerate national development.
“The government is only selling 15 percent, and the buyer is purchasing at Sh34 per share, compared to the current market rate of Sh28,” he said.
Residents said they supported the sale as long as it translates into tangible development outcomes. Jerusha Muthoni, from New Mukuru Estate, said,
“I fully support the move 100 percent because the money will be for development,” praising the government’s affordable housing initiatives. Samson Kumenda, from Njiru Sub-County, echoed the call for transparency.
“I support the move, but there needs to be transparency in the dealing. Before the government bought Safaricom shares, they had envisioned that they would sell them one day,” he said.
From Bahati Constituency, Eddie Odongo said the sale is a better alternative than overtaxing citizens.
“This is a good move. The money will be used for development purposes,” he said, a view shared by John Maina, also from Bahati, who added:“I support the proposed sale of the government’s stake in Safaricom since it will help accelerate infrastructure development. Once the money is obtained, it should be used wisely.”
Residents also highlighted the importance of seeing local benefits. Elizabeth Kosgei, from Rongai, urged visible improvements in communities.
“Don’t forget us! Pesa ikitoka, construct roads for us as we pregnant women have been suffering and we will appreciate it,”
she said. From Kitui, Gideon Muthoka said the sale could reduce reliance on foreign loans and enable completion of stalled projects
“The government is just selling what they own — you sell what is yours, and this is what they are doing,” he said.
Nicholas Musili added: “Instead of borrowing and overtaxing Kenyans, let the government sell the shares.”
Kenyans participating in the county-level forums stressed that while they support the divestiture, their backing is contingent on transparency, accountability, and visible development outcomes.
