Delays in closing Safaricom sale deal gifts State Sh16bn

Delays in the sale of the government's 15 percent stake in Safaricom to South Africa's Vodacom are expected to yield Sh16.1 billion in dividends for the Treasury. The government will maintain its 35 percent stake due to ongoing court proceedings delaying the sale. The transaction, initially expected to conclude by March 31, may extend beyond August 4, 2026, when Safaricom closes its books for a final dividend payout of Sh1.15 per share.