The M-PESA Foundation: A Legacy of Transforming Lives
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The M-PESA Foundation: A Legacy of Transforming Lives
Established in 2010, the M-PESA Foundation is a key philanthropic arm of M-PESA and Safaricom. It is dedicated to transforming lives across Kenya.
Over the past 15 years, the foundation has invested approximately KES 11 billion in sectors such as health, education, economic empowerment, environment, and humanitarian response. As a result, 7–8 million people have been directly impacted, while 35 million have benefited indirectly.
The M-PESA Foundation: A Legacy of Transforming Lives
Strategic Focus on Large-Scale Impact
Unlike the Safaricom Foundation, which supports multiple small-scale projects, the M-PESA Foundation focuses on long-term, capital-intensive initiatives. These are designed to create far-reaching benefits.
“Our goal is to ensure that our interventions create a sustainable impact and leave a lasting legacy,” says Karen K. Basiye, Director, Sustainable Business and Social Impact.
Health Initiatives: Addressing Maternal and Child Health
One of the foundation’s flagship programs, Uzazi Salama, began in 2013 in Samburu. Since then, it has expanded to Homa Bay, Kilifi, and Lamu. The program focuses on maternal, newborn, and adolescent health by improving hospital infrastructure and equipping maternal units with incubators and other essential facilities.
Currently, the foundation operates in 30 counties. It supports maternal health programs and emergency transport solutions in partnership with the government.
“We believe that no mother should lose her life while giving birth, and every child deserves a healthy start,” Karen emphasizes.
In addition to Uzazi Salama, other health programs include:
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Fistula Restoration Program: This provides life-changing surgeries for women in Bungoma, Kilifi, and Kiambu.
“Restoring dignity to women who have lived with fistula for years is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work,” she notes. -
Telemedicine and Medical Camps: These initiatives use technology to improve healthcare in remote areas, reaching 70,000 patients annually.
Education: A Key Equalizer
Education lies at the heart of the foundation’s mission. So far, it has built modern, ICT-ready schools in 35 counties. It has also implemented the Keeping Girls in School program, which distributed sanitary towels to 800,000 girls. This followed a tragic incident of period-shaming.
The M-PESA Foundation: A Legacy of Transforming Lives
“We want to ensure that no girl misses school due to lack of sanitary towels. Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty,” Karen states.
Moreover, the M-PESA Academy, a premier secondary school, identifies and nurtures bright, underprivileged students. One standout success story involves a student who moved from a rural village to studying in the U.S., later securing a job at Goldman Sachs.
Environmental Conservation and Community Development
The foundation also contributes significantly to environmental protection. Some key efforts include:
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Fencing Kakamega Forest and Ruma National Park.
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Protecting elephants in Reteti Sanctuary.
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Restoring the Mau ecosystem.
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Constructing the Nyelani Dam, which now benefits 90,000 people and 400 farmers.
“Environmental conservation is not just about trees and wildlife; it’s about ensuring sustainable livelihoods for communities,” Karen highlights.
Impact Measurement and Partner Selection
To ensure effectiveness, the foundation relies on national data sources, community feedback, and government strategies.
Additionally, it collaborates with implementing partners through a rigorous selection process. Organizations must demonstrate experience and prior investment in the targeted sectors.
“We are keen on working with partners who share our vision and have a proven track record of impactful interventions,” Karen explains.
Karen K. Basiye, Director, Sustainable Business and Social Impact.
Notable Transformations and Future Goals
One of the most inspiring stories is that of a 90-year-old woman who lived with fistula for over 60 years. After surgery, she was finally able to participate in community life.
“Seeing such transformations reaffirms why we do what we do,” Karen shares.
Looking ahead, the foundation aims to:
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Establish modern ICT-integrated schools in every county.
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Set up maternal health units across all counties.
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Expand youth scholarships and vocational training to meet industry needs.
“Our vision is to leave no one behind. We want to build a Kenya where every person, regardless of their background, has an opportunity to thrive,” Karen concludes.
Reflecting on her journey with the M-PESA Foundation, Karen describes it as one of deep fulfillment and purpose.
“Every project we undertake is not just about numbers or reports; it’s about real people whose lives are being changed for the better. This journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful to be part of something that truly makes a difference,” she says.
Ultimately, the M-PESA Foundation remains committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of Kenyans. It continues to evolve in response to emerging societal challenges.
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