#11
DIRECTOR – SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS & SOCIAL IMPACT, SAFARICOM PLC
“Sustainability is not about doing less harm; it is about doing more good.” These words by Jochen Zeitz, a global advocate for responsible business practices, resonate deeply with Karen Basiye, Safaricom PLC’s Director of Sustainable Business and Social Impact. For Karen, sustainability is more than a corporate buzzword – it is a mission woven into the very fabric of her life and work.
Karen’s career journey was inspired early in life by the values her mother instilled in her: integrity, responsibility, love for God and the importance of leaving the world better than she found it. Today, she channels these principles into her leadership at Safaricom PLC, where she oversees the company’s sustainability agenda with a focus on driving positive social and environmental change.
In her current role, Karen plays a pivotal role in aligning the company’s operations with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that every business decision considers its broader impact on society and the planet. Additionally, she leads the Safaricom and M-PESA Foundations, building communities and transforming lives, ensuring a positive impact on millions of lives across the country. Her work has positioned Safaricom PLC as a beacon of responsible business in Africa, earning the company numerous accolades such as the Sustainability Catalyst Award and recognition at the Financial Reporting (FiRe) Awards for transparent and ethical reporting.
Karen’s impact goes beyond internal operations. She has been instrumental in driving partnerships for innovative projects like Daktari Smart, a telemedicine platform that addresses the gap in specialist medical care for underserved rural areas. Another initiative, Zeraki Learning, uses digital tools to support students’ educational journeys, while Shupavu 291 leverages low-tech solutions to make learning accessible to more children. “More than a tool, technology is a bridge to opportunity,” Karen shared during a recent panel discussion. “When applied with purpose, it can transform communities.
Her expertise and dedication have made her a key contributor in global and regional fora. In 2024, Karen participated in the Connected Africa Summit, where she spoke about the potential of Smart Villages in driving rural transformation. The panel explored ways to expand digital infrastructure, promote digital literacy, and empower local entrepreneurs. “Sustainability in rural communities is about inclusion,” she explained. “It’s about ensuring no one is left behind in the digital revolution.”
Karen was also part of the team that led Safaricom to secure the first-ever ESG-linked loan in the Kenyan market – a groundbreaking achievement that demonstrated the company’s commitment to balancing financial performance with long-term sustainability goals.
Karen’s current endeavors are shaped by a strong foundation in environmental studies, coupled with hands-on experience in environmental policy. Her exploration of this space is guided by both academic knowledge and practical engagement, allowing her to navigate and contribute effectively to the field. She began her career at the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), initially as an intern. Her dedication and curiosity quickly earned her a full-time role with the Public Complaints Committee on Environment, where she worked on key issues affecting Kenya’s natural landscapes.
Driven to deepen her expertise, Karen pursued a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Environmental Science, Policy, and Management through the prestigious Erasmus Mundus program, studying at Central European University and Lund University. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Kenyatta University (KU), and has completed a Senior Management Leadership Programme at Strathmore University
Karen’s leadership style is grounded in authenticity, empathy, and a steadfast belief in the power of self-confidence. She is deeply committed to nurturing talent within her team, encouraging innovative thinking, and creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to take ownership of their growth. “I have learned that when you give people the tools and trust them to solve problems, they often exceed expectations,” she shared during a recent internal leadership session.
For Karen, confidence is not about knowing everything but about having the courage to learn, adapt, and seize opportunities with conviction. “When you believe in yourself, you open doors you never imagined possible. More than a personal asset, confidence is a catalyst for growth and impact,” she reflects. Through her mentorship initiatives, she continues to inspire others, particularly young women, to cultivate this inner strength and embrace their potential unapologetically.
As Safaricom PLC continues to position itself as a purpose-led technology company, Karen Basiye remains a key driving force behind this vision. Her unwavering dedication to sustainability solidifies her place among the most impactful C-suite executives in 2025.
AUTHOR: KAREN NDUKU
EDITOR: DR. HANNINGTONE GAYA
