NAIROBI, Kenya-Seven years after the death of former Bob Collymore, Kenyans have taken to social media to celebrate the legacy of the businessman widely credited with transforming Safaricom into East Africa’s most valuable company.
The anniversary was marked by a simple but emotional message from his widow, Wambui Kamiru, who wrote on X: “7 years my love.”
The post drew tens of reactions from Kenyans who remembered Collymore not only as a corporate leader but also as a mentor, philanthropist and outspoken advocate for ethical leadership.
Many users described him as a visionary who left an enduring mark on Kenya’s telecommunications industry, with others saying his leadership style remains a benchmark for corporate governance.
Collymore died on July 1, 2019, at the age of 61 after battling acute myeloid leukaemia.
His death brought to an end nearly a decade at the helm of Safaricom, where he had overseen one of the most remarkable corporate growth stories in Africa.
Born in Guyana on January 13, 1958, Collymore moved to the United Kingdom as a teenager before building a career in telecommunications with companies including Cellnet, Dixons Retail and Vodafone.
In 2006, he became Vodafone’s Governance Director for Africa, a role that paved the way for his appointment as Safaricom’s Chief Executive Officer in 2010.
When he took over from Michael Joseph, Collymore inherited a successful mobile operator but faced the challenge of sustaining rapid growth amid increasing competition and regulatory scrutiny.
Under his leadership, Safaricom expanded beyond a telecommunications company into a technology and financial services giant.
The company strengthened the reach of M-Pesa, broadened mobile data services, invested heavily in network infrastructure and deepened its corporate social responsibility programmes through the Safaricom Foundation.
During his tenure, Safaricom consistently posted record revenues and profits, cementing its position as Kenya’s largest company by market value and one of Africa’s most profitable telecommunications firms.
Beyond financial performance, Collymore became known for championing diversity, employee welfare and transparent leadership. He regularly spoke on issues ranging from governance and corruption to youth empowerment, mental health and environmental conservation.
His leadership style earned him admiration beyond the corporate world, with many young entrepreneurs viewing him as a mentor through his frequent public engagements and candid social media interactions.
Even after being diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia in 2017, Collymore remained actively involved in Safaricom’s operations.
He temporarily stepped aside for treatment in the United Kingdom before returning to Kenya in 2018 to resume his duties while continuing medical care.
His passing prompted an outpouring of grief from business leaders, politicians and ordinary Kenyans, many describing him as a leader who combined commercial success with humility and compassion.
On the seventh anniversary of his death, social media platforms on July 1, 2026, were once again filled with tributes recalling his wit, inspirational leadership and commitment to making business a force for social good.
Many users reflected on Safaricom’s growth under his stewardship, while others shared memories of his public speeches, interviews and mentorship, saying his influence continues to shape Kenya’s corporate landscape years after his passing.
Collymore is survived by his wife, Wambui Kamiru, children and stepchildren.
His legacy also lives on through the leadership principles he championed: integrity, innovation and purpose-driven business, which continue to inspire corporate leaders across Kenya and beyond.