Safaricom is actively pursuing its ambitious goal of transitioning from a telecommunications company to a leading technology firm by the year 2030. This vision was highlighted by Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa during the third annual Safaricom Engineering Summit, known as Decode 3.0, held in Nairobi.

Ndegwa emphasized the importance of Decode 3.0 as a platform to showcase Safaricom's ongoing evolution. "Our agenda to transition from a telco to a tech company is taking shape, and Decode 3.0 is a testament to this transition," he stated during the summit. The three-day event brings together young engineers, scientists, tech enthusiasts, innovators, and key stakeholders to facilitate knowledge sharing and collaborative discussions.

The theme of this year's summit, "Charting East Africa’s Digital Destiny," underscores the critical role of young innovators in reshaping Kenya's engineering landscape through innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability. Ndegwa noted, "This year’s summit is a dynamic platform that empowers Safaricom engineers to showcase their technical prowess and connect with the broader tech community. It is a testament to our commitment to being the technology partner of choice for young innovators on the digital landscape."

Decode 3.0 features presentations from industry experts who are exploring how emerging technologies like artificial intelligence are transforming business operations and enhancing human potential across various sectors. The summit encourages interactive sessions where participants can exchange insights and collaborate on strategies to scale innovations, improve efficiency, and deliver lasting value to clients.

A key focus of the summit is showcasing advancements that address the needs of the Kenyan and African tech industries as they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, Machine Learning, and Fintech. Attendees have the opportunity to experience firsthand Safaricom's engineering practices and products in Fintech, including Virtual Reality experiences and games, along with other innovations from partners and sponsors.

Ndegwa highlighted Safaricom's central role in Kenya’s digital and tech ecosystem, extending its influence beyond national borders. "As a customer-obsessed, digital-first organization, we recognise that the engineering community is the architect of such customer-centric solutions," he said. He further emphasized that through initiatives like Safaricom Decode, the company aims to empower the community to showcase their skills and exchange knowledge, solidifying Safaricom's position as a technology hub.

Safaricom Decode serves as a vital platform for demonstrating engineering excellence, showcasing cutting-edge technology advancements, and promoting thought leadership. The summit emphasizes alignment with national strategies, the promotion of financial inclusion, and the responsible use of technology, all aimed at shaping Kenya’s digital future.