From Banking Halls to Mobile Wallets: A Journey of Transformation

Waititu’s journey began far from the bustling headquarters of Safaricom. Her impressive 15-year career in the financial services sector saw her navigate the traditional banking world, honing her expertise in areas like corporate banking, strategy development, and client coverage. This rich experience instilled in her a deep understanding of financial needs, both for large corporations and individual consumers.

Joining the Mobile Money Revolution: Safaricom and M-Pesa

In 2023, Waititu made a pivotal career move, joining Safaricom, a company synonymous with the groundbreaking mobile money platform, M-Pesa. M-Pesa revolutionized financial access in Kenya, allowing even unbanked individuals to send, receive, and store money using their mobile phones. This shift resonated deeply with Waititu, who saw an opportunity to leverage her expertise in driving financial inclusion on a massive scale.

Innovation at the Heart of Financial Services

As CFSO, Waititu’s role is multifaceted. She oversees the development and implementation of innovative financial products and services designed to cater to the diverse needs of Safaricom’s vast customer base. This includes initiatives like:

• Expanding M-Pesa’s reach: Under Waititu’s leadership, Safaricom continues to expand M-Pesa’s reach, ensuring even more people have access to essential financial services. Partnerships with other institutions and cross-border integrations are opening doors to new markets, blurring geographical lines and making financial inclusion a reality for a wider population.
• Empowering small businesses: Waititu recognizes the economic power of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). She champions initiatives like loans and credit facilities through M-Pesa, empowering these businesses to access capital, grow, and create jobs. Products like Pochi La Biashara (Small Business Wallet) offer tailored financial solutions, catering specifically to the needs of entrepreneurs.

• Fostering a culture of innovation: Waititu understands that innovation is the lifeblood of success in the rapidly evolving FinTech landscape. She fosters a culture of innovation within Safaricom’s financial services division, encouraging her team to explore new technologies and solutions that can further democratize access to finance.

Building Bridges, Not Walls: Collaboration for a More Inclusive Future

Waititu believes in the power of collaboration. She recognizes that the journey towards financial inclusion requires a united front. Safaricom, under her leadership, actively seeks partnerships with banks, government agencies, and other financial institutions. These collaborations aim to streamline processes, offer seamless financial services, and break down existing barriers that hinder financial access.

A Passion for People

While Waititu’s expertise lies in the realm of finance, her passion lies with the people. Her vision extends beyond financial metrics; she champions initiatives that empower individuals and communities. Through strategic partnerships, Safaricom’s financial services division has facilitated the distribution of resources like the Hustler Fund, a government initiative focused on providing microloans to underprivileged Kenyans.

A Trailblazer for Women in FinTech

Waititu serves as a role model for aspiring women in the FinTech sector. Her achievements in a traditionally male-dominated industry are a testament to her determination and exceptional skills. She actively mentors and empowers other women, fostering a culture of inclusivity within the company and the broader FinTech landscape.