Investors and market watchers turned their attention to Safaricom PLC on Thursday following a brief public notice from the telecommunications giant that signalled fresh developments for shareholders.
The announcement, released through official channels, followed a board meeting earlier this week and immediately sparked discussion across the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
Safaricom disclosed that its board of directors had approved an interim dividend payout for the financial year ending March 31, 2026.
According to the notice, shareholders will receive Sh0.85 per ordinary share, subject to standard regulatory and administrative procedures. The decision was reached during a board meeting held on February 4, 2026.
The interim dividend reflects the company’s continued commitment to delivering shareholder value amid a challenging operating environment marked by inflationary pressures, currency fluctuations, and evolving regulatory demands.
Safaricom remains one of the most capitalised firms on the NSE and a key contributor to Kenya’s tax revenues, employment, and digital economy.
Market analysts say the announcement is likely to be viewed as a positive signal of the company’s financial stability and cash-flow position.
Interim dividends are typically interpreted as an indicator of management confidence in ongoing performance, especially in a sector facing stiff competition and rising investment costs in infrastructure and innovation.
Safaricom’s diversified business model spanning mobile voice, data services, enterprise solutions, and its flagship mobile money platform has helped cushion the firm against volatility in any single revenue stream.
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M-Pesa, in particular, continues to play a central role in sustaining revenues, with growing adoption of financial services such as savings, credit, and merchant payments.
The telco’s regional footprint, including operations in Ethiopia, has also remained under close scrutiny by investors.
While expansion efforts have required heavy capital outlay, Safaricom has repeatedly maintained that long term growth prospects remain strong, supported by rising mobile and data penetration across East Africa.
Shareholders eligible for the interim dividend are expected to receive payments within timelines to be communicated by the company, in line with NSE listing requirements.
The dividend will be paid from profits generated during the current financial year, ahead of the final dividend declaration later in 2026.
Safaricom’s announcement comes at a time when listed companies are increasingly cautious about capital allocation, balancing shareholder returns with the need to reinvest in network expansion, technology upgrades and customer experience.
As the financial year progresses, investors will be keenly watching the company’s half-year results and strategic outlook, particularly on revenue growth, cost management, and the performance of new digital products.
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