Safaricom has reaffirmed its commitment to responsible data use and innovation during the third day of the Global Data Festival and Kenya Space Expo & Conference, highlighting the critical role of privacy, collaboration and data-driven decision-making in shaping the country’s future.
The telecommunications giant participated in a series of discussions and engagements focused on the transformative potential of data and technology, while emphasising the need to balance innovation with the protection of individual privacy.
Safaricom’s Head of Customer Privacy, Sharon Holi, joined fellow industry experts on a panel discussion titled “From Data Silos to Ethical Insights: Balancing Value and Privacy.” The session explored how organisations can unlock the value of data while maintaining public trust through ethical practices and robust privacy safeguards.
According to the company, the discussion underscored the importance of embedding privacy by design and promoting responsible data use as key pillars for scaling innovation, strengthening stakeholder confidence and addressing broader societal challenges.
A major highlight of the day was the announcement of a strategic partnership between Safaricom and the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS). The collaboration will explore the use of mobile phone data insights to support national planning and policymaking.
The initiative aims to combine the strengths and capabilities of both organisations to generate evidence-based insights that can inform development strategies and improve decision-making processes across the country.
Safaricom said the partnership reflects a growing recognition of the value of data in addressing complex socio-economic issues and advancing national development objectives.
As the conference approaches its final day, the company expressed optimism about continuing conversations on how data and technology can contribute to a more informed, inclusive and innovative future.
The Global Data Festival and Kenya Space Expo & Conference has brought together policymakers, researchers, technology leaders and industry stakeholders to discuss emerging trends and opportunities in the data and space sectors.
