Sylvia Duruson
Safaricom, a leading telecommunications operator, has joined forces with Kenya Airways to enhance the airline’s operational efficiency and customer experience. This collaboration aims to introduce cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions across various aspects of air travel and aviation services.
The partnership’s scope encompasses several key areas. In-flight Wi-Fi services will be improved, providing passengers with better connectivity during their journeys. Cybersecurity measures will be strengthened to protect the airline’s digital infrastructure and customer data. The alliance also focuses on elevating the overall customer experience through technological advancements.
Beyond passenger-centric improvements, the collaboration extends to operational aspects of aviation. Infrastructure inspection and security surveillance will be enhanced using advanced technologies. The partners will work on developing loyalty programs to reward frequent flyers and improve customer retention.
Data science and software development initiatives form another crucial component of this partnership. These efforts aim to optimize various airline operations and introduce innovative solutions in the aviation sector. Interestingly, the collaboration also explores applications in agriculture, highlighting the potential for cross-industry innovation.
A significant focus of the partnership lies in implementing Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. These will be applied to various aspects of airline operations, including warehousing, baggage tracking, and management of aircraft materials. The IoT solutions will also cover Unit Load Devices (ULDs), which are containers used for loading luggage and cargo in aircraft holds. This technology will enable efficient tracking, location management, reconciliation, and stock-taking of these essential aviation components.
Fredrick Kitunga, Chief Information and Data Officer at Kenya Airways, emphasized the long-term benefits of this partnership. He highlighted how the collaboration addresses current challenges while laying the foundation for sustainable growth, enhanced connectivity, and transformative innovations that will benefit customers and communities for years to come.
Cynthia Kropac, Head of Business at Safaricom, underscored how this alliance aligns with Safaricom’s strategy to deliver superior customer experiences. She pointed out that by combining Kenya Airways’ expertise in safe air travel with Safaricom’s advanced communications and technology capabilities, they aim to ensure seamless connectivity for customers throughout their travels.
This partnership is part of Safaricom’s broader strategy of forming strategic alliances to expand its reach and enhance its service offerings. The telecom operator has been actively engaging in various partnerships and expansions in recent years.
Notable among these is Safaricom’s expansion into Ethiopia in August 2022, followed by the launch of commercial operations in the Tigray region in June 2023. The company has also secured significant financial backing for its Ethiopian operations, including a substantial investment from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and support from the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA).
Safaricom’s strategic moves extend to the financial sector as well. The company recently launched its mobile financial services platform, M-Pesa, in Ethiopia, marking a significant milestone in its expansion strategy.
These strategic partnerships and expansions underscore Safaricom’s commitment to extending its reach and enhancing service delivery across diverse markets. The collaboration with Kenya Airways represents another step in this direction, promising to bring innovative solutions to the aviation industry while improving customer experiences in air travel.
