Safaricom Steps Up Cybersecurity Support for SMEs as Threats Intensify
Safaricom Steps Up Cybersecurity Support for SMEs as Threats Intensify
Safaricom is intensifying its investment in cybersecurity solutions and customer awareness as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) increasingly find themselves exposed to digital threats.
Speaking to Africa Business News in an exclusive interview, Acting Chief Enterprise Business Officer Frankline Okata emphasized the need for stronger protection across Kenya’s business landscape.
Okata noted that while external attackers remain a major threat, internal vulnerabilities largely linked to limited staff awareness and weak digital hygiene pose an even greater risk.
“The biggest risk facing businesses, especially small businesses, is that they are exposed to attackers. But the biggest risk is internal,” he said. “Many SMEs lack basic knowledge on what they need to do to protect themselves.”
Rising Internal Vulnerabilities
According to Okata, most small businesses still rely on basic email accounts with minimal security features. Weak passwords, shared devices, poor data management practices, and unsecured internet connections leave organizations exposed.
“A lot of businesses use internet connectivity, but the connectivity provided is often not secure,” he explained. “When bad actors come, they find organizations fairly exposed, and that can lead to financial and reputational loss.”
Safaricom is focusing on awareness and urging businesses to adopt simple measures such as two-factor authentication, securing endpoints like phones and laptops, and improving staff vigilance around suspicious links and emails.
Embedding Security Into Products
Okata highlighted that Safaricom has embedded advanced security protocols into its internet products, allowing businesses to operate with an added layer of protection. In addition, customers can opt for enhanced security add-ons depending on their risk profile.
“The first thing is awareness. The second is ensuring our products are protected. We also allow customers to add a third layer of protection,” he said.
Safaricom Steps Up Cybersecurity Support for SMEs as Threats Intensify
Strategic Global Partnerships
Safaricom has forged partnerships with leading global cybersecurity players such as Cloudflare, Fortinet, and NexScout. These collaborations are designed to equip businesses with enterprise-grade solutions tailored to evolving threats.
The company has also built a dedicated internal security department offering services such as Vulnerability Security Assessments to help organizations understand their risks and implement practical safeguards.
“Many organizations don’t know the risks they face. We can sit with you and assess your environment at a fair price. From there, we advise where to invest,” Okata noted.
Cybersecurity on a Budget: Practical Steps for SMEs
With cybersecurity often perceived as expensive, Okata stressed that many protective measures require minimal financial investment.
These include:
- Securing personal and business devices
- Using strong passwords
- Enabling two-factor authentication
- Controlling access to phones and laptops
- Building basic staff awareness
- Validating suspicious emails, links, and attachments
“Before you buy any system, there are simple things you can do as an individual and as a small business,” he added.
AI and Emerging Cyber Risks
Safaricom has invested heavily in artificial intelligence, with more than 200 AI use cases already in deployment.
Okata said the company is focused on securing the foundational layers of its digital ecosystem, including mobile and internet access points where most Kenyans interact with AI powered platforms.
“Our 5G network is heavily protected to ensure that as a customer, you can interact knowing you are secure,” he said.
A Future Built on Secure Connectivity
As digital adoption accelerates across Kenya’s business environment, Safaricom views cybersecurity as an essential pillar of enterprise growth and competitiveness.
“We transform our customers,” Okata said. “Protection is a critical pillar because, as you run your applications and connect to the internet, there are many bad players out there. Our role is to ensure our customers remain protected.”
