Vodacom Consolidates Control Over Safaricom in $2. 1 Billion Deal DATELINE: Johannesburg, South Africa – LEAD: In a significant move in the African telecommunications sector, Vodacom Group has successfully completed its acquisition of an additional 20% stake in Safaricom PLC, now holding approximately 55% of the Kenyan telecommunications giant. NUT GRAF: The $2.
1 billion transaction, which includes the purchase of a 15% stake from the Kenyan government and an effective additional 5% from Vodafone Group Plc, marks a pivotal moment for Vodacom and Safaricom.
The deal, which was challenged in court, was ultimately cleared by the Court of Appeal of Kenya, allowing it to proceed. Vodacom’s acquisition of Safaricom’s shares follows a series of legal and regulatory hurdles.
On June 26, 2026, the Court of Appeal stayed a conservatory order that had been put in place, allowing the deal to move forward. This decision came after a group of Kenyan petitioners challenged the sale, arguing that it was not in the public interest.
The National Treasury of Kenya had advocated for the sale to proceed, emphasizing the public interest and the potential benefits of the transaction.
The Court of Appeal agreed, overturning a high court order that had initially blocked the deal.
The transaction, priced at KES34 per share, was finalized after meeting all required conditions, including regulatory and legal approvals. This move has consolidated Vodacom’s position as a major player in the East African telecommunications market.
Safaricom, founded in 1997, has been a dominant player in the Kenyan market, offering a range of services including telecommunications, financial services, and technology.
Vodacom, a South African telecommunications company, has been a significant shareholder in Safaricom since 2008.
The acquisition represents a significant consolidation of ownership in the region and is expected to have a profound impact on the competitive landscape of the Kenyan telecommunications market.
Experts suggest that the increased control by Vodacom may lead to changes in Safaricom’s existing partnerships and business operations. There is also speculation about potential changes in the management structure or strategic direction of Safaricom following the acquisition.
The deal has been welcomed by some as a positive step for the region’s telecommunications industry, while others have expressed concerns about the potential for increased market concentration and reduced competition.
KICKER: As Vodacom takes full control of Safaricom, the next steps will be closely watched.
The impact on the Kenyan telecommunications market, as well as on the broader African telecommunications landscape, remains to be seen. Vodacom Completes $2.
1 Billion Safaricom Stake Acquisition, Boosts East Africa Presence — techfinancials.
Co.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: enca
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