National Assembly Launches Public Hearings in 30 Counties on Safaricom Stake Sale

The National Assembly of Kenya has announced a series of public hearings in 30 counties to deliberate on Sessional Paper No. 3 of 2025, which details the government’s proposal to partially divest its 15% shareholding in Safaricom PLC.

Illustration of Kenya National Assembly hosting public hearings on Safaricom stake sale with Parliament building and citizens
Public hearings on Safaricom stake sale: Kenya’s National Assembly invites citizens across 30 counties, February 3–14, 2026

This move comes amid growing public interest in the future of Safaricom, Kenya’s largest telecommunications company, and concerns about transparency, valuation, and long-term national benefits.

Key Highlights

  • Hearings run February 3–14, 2026 across 30 counties.
  • Focus: Government’s plan to divest 15% stake in Safaricom PLC.
  • Led by the Finance & National Planning Committee and the Public Debt & Privatisation Committee.
  • Citizens, experts, and industry stakeholders invited to participate.

Hearing Schedule

The hearings will be conducted between February 3 and February 14, 2026, beginning at 10:00 am daily.

February 3

February 4

  • Nakuru
  • Wajir
  • Kitui
  • Nyeri

February 5–7

  • Kericho
  • Kirinyaga
  • Baringo
  • Kisumu
  • Embu
  • Murang’a
  • Kakamega

February 9–14

  • West Pokot
  • Tharaka Nithi
  • Kiambu
  • Vihiga
  • Uasin Gishu
  • Nandi
  • Meru
  • Kisii
  • Taita Taveta
  • Kajiado
  • Samburu
  • Homabay
  • Mombasa
  • Kilifi
  • Kwale

Constitutional Mandate

Clerk of the National Assembly, Samuel Njoroge, CBS, emphasized that the hearings are in line with Article 118(1)(b) of the Constitution, which requires Parliament to facilitate public participation in legislative and policy matters.

He noted that the committees will:

  • Discuss the contents of the Sessional Paper.
  • Review implications of the proposed Safaricom stake sale.
  • Collect feedback from citizens, civil society, and industry experts.

Public Concerns

Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has been vocal about the need for competitive bidding and transparent valuation methods. He warned against rushing the transaction, calling it:

“The largest in both size and quantum that our country has handled since independence.”

Nyoro’s memorandum questions:

  • The valuation process.
  • The speed of the deal.
  • The decision-making framework.

Access to Documents

Copies of Sessional Paper No. 3 of 2025 are available:

  • At the National Assembly Table Office in Parliament Buildings.
  • Online via parliament.go.ke.

Why This Matters

The Safaricom stake sale is a landmark transaction in Kenya’s economic history. Public hearings ensure:

  • Transparency in government decisions.
  • Inclusive participation from citizens and stakeholders.
  • Accountability in managing national assets.

This process will shape not only the future of Safaricom but also set a precedent for how Kenya handles large-scale privatization deals.

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