Safaricom Lays Out an AI-Led Direction at Decode 4.0, Recasting M-Pesa for a Different Layer of Use
Safaricom uses Decode 4.0 to lay out an AI-first direction, with M-Pesa moving into a deeper, data-driven role across its ecosystem
Safaricom Group Chief Technology Officer James Maitai officially opened Safaricom Decode 4.0 , declaring this the “Year of AI” for Kenya’s largest telecommunications provider. Speaking to developers and partners in Nairobi, Maitai outlined a transition from a traditional telco to a purpose-driven technology company by 2030. The summit highlights a massive technical overhaul of the M-Pesa platform, now dubbed Fintech 2.0, which introduces autonomous self-healing capabilities and advanced fraud detection to the mobile money ecosystem.
Scaling the M-Pesa Fintech 2.0 Ecosystem
The transition to Fintech 2.0 represents the most significant update to the M-Pesa platform in 10 years. This upgrade moves beyond simple transactions to an intelligent layer capable of autonomous alerts and intuitive customer segmentation. According to Maitai, the current infrastructure now supports sophisticated credit scoring and data-driven product designs. These updates aim to provide more secure and adaptive digital financial services for a user base that has grown increasingly reliant on mobile-first banking.
Intelligent Infrastructure and the 5G Rollout
Safaricom is positioning AI as the primary operating layer for its connectivity and national digital systems. The “made of Kenya” theme at Safaricom Decode 4.0 emphasizes local solutions for smart homes, smart meters, and resilient power grids. Currently, Safaricom’s 5G network covers 30% of the Kenyan population, providing the low-latency foundation required for the burgeoning gaming and creative economies. Maitai noted that with Kenya’s average age now at 21 years, the demand for immersive technologies and esports is driving the need for faster, intelligent networks.
Expanding Decode Cafes to the Grassroots
To decentralize tech innovation, Safaricom announced the launch of Decode Cafes in various regions across the country. While previous iterations of the summit were largely centered in Nairobi, these new hubs intend to bring technical mentorship and “Product Builders Labs” to developers outside the capital. These spaces allow participants to test prototypes and engage in masterclasses led by Safaricom engineers specializing in cybersecurity, cloud computing, and fintech.
Partnership and Global Collaboration
The 2026 summit is supported by global technology leaders including Google, Microsoft, Huawei, Dell, and Mistumi. These partners are integrated into the CodeLabs sessions, providing hands-on tools for practical skill building. Maitai emphasized that these collaborations are essential for scaling Kenyan-made solutions to a global stage, reinforcing the strategy of “Kenya to the world.”
“This is going to be the year of AI within the Safaricom ecosystem.”
The event concludes with a focus on the “next generation of builders,” signaling a shift toward inclusive, digital-fast platforms that define Kenya’s intelligent future.
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