Safaricom Eyes Net-Zero by 2050 as Telco Retains Elite Status in Global Climate Rankings
Safaricom PLC (NSE: SCOM) has solidified its position as a global leader in corporate sustainability, securing a spot on the prestigious CDP “A-List” for the second consecutive year.
The recognition, announced Tuesday, places the Kenyan telecommunications giant among an elite 4% of companies worldwide acknowledged by CDP (formerly the Climate Disclosure Project) for excellence in environmental transparency and climate change action.
The CDP framework is the global gold standard for environmental disclosure, used by investors and stakeholders to track how organizations manage their carbon footprints. Safaricom’s inclusion on the 2025 A-List highlights its rigorous reporting standards and measurable progress toward its environmental goals.
According to the company’s 2025 Sustainable Business Report, Safaricom has leveraged cutting-edge technology to refine its reporting. The integration of AI-driven dashboards and specialized greenhouse gas (GHG) data management tools has significantly enhanced the accuracy of its emissions tracking and forecasting.
Speaking on the achievement, Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa emphasized that the company’s success is rooted in its adherence to international reporting standards, including the IFRS S1 and S2 and the Taskforce on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).
“We introduced an internal carbon pricing mechanism, and we continue to drive our reforestation efforts by planting over 2.3 million trees,” said Ndegwa. “Our sustainability-linked loan should contribute to our ESG agenda, most notably, being a net-zero by 2050.”
Safaricom’s environmental strategy includes aggressive milestones for the next decade. The company has already solarized 1,432 Base Transceiver Stations (BTS), which has notably reduced its reliance on fossil fuels. Looking toward the future, the telco aims to have 5,000 of its sites running on solar power, with the intention of having 95% of its entire network powered by green energy by 2030. These efforts are complemented by a massive reforestation plan to plant 5 million trees across 5,000 hectares and a commitment to decarbonizing its supply chain by partnering with eco-friendly suppliers.
As Safaricom transitions into a purpose-led technology company, Mr. Ndegwa noted that innovation remains the primary catalyst for climate mitigation.
“The role of innovation is pivotal to accelerate our environmental agenda,” Ndegwa added. “It allows us to not only drive green energy but also affect communities in a positive way by mitigating climate change.”
