Tell us about yourself and your role at Safaricom.
My name is Tabitha Mutunga. I am a Project Manager, Technology Enterprise Services. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from JKUAT and Master’s in project management. I’ve also done operations management and numerous tech certifications. All these have prepared me to be where I am.
What exactly is Technology Enterprise Services?
Technology Enterprise Services sits at the focal point of customer fulfillment. We translate customer requirements into services that are fit for their use through technological support and enabling.
How does Technology Enterprise Services serve Kenyans?
There are so many other things that we are doing in the technical space that are really enabling businesses to thrive. We have FinTech, we have SD one, which are secure, wireless connections for customers. We have digitised numerous government services that are hosted by Safaricom including Boma Yangu that is about to be launched and the Women in Enterprise Fund.
What gives you motivation at work?
Two years ago, we worked with Gertrude’s Hospital on a telemedicine project, and we provided specialized medical access to children in very remote areas of the country.
Through technology, children in Lamu, Homa Bay and other areas accessed specialized treatment and consultations from qualified doctors seated in Gertrude’s Nairobi.
When you see a child who has seen a doctor and has been treated, and they’re back to school because of technology, that really motivates you to keep on working in the technology environment.
Share a career highlight.
During global sports events held in Kenya we provide connectivity to aid the media upload the content and showcase the talent to the world and enable fans of all ages to follow and share proceedings.
When an event trends online, say on Tik Tok which is big now, then young people get interested, that ultimately brings growth to a sport, and I consider our work a success.
A highlight I remember is when we hosted the World Under-18 Athletics Championships. We provided free Wi-Fi at Kasarani stadium, and we had more than 50,000 Kenyans connected.
Personal impact of your career in technology.
It has built me to the person I am. I can handle mega projects; I am able to manage relationships with different stakeholders. It has stretched and expanded my resilience and put me in places where I must grow and learn. And finally, it has given me a source of living.
What lessons have you learnt as a technology professional?
You must be resilient. You must be very good in collaboration. You should be a good listener. Be open to feedback. Put yourself out there to learn. Give yourself grace. When you experience failure focus on the lessons.
What is your leadership style?
My principles when it comes to leadership are being part of the team, giving guidance and allowing the team to thrive in whatever they are doing.
What do you do to unwind?
I have taken up golf which is a very interesting game with a lot of life lessons – team work, timekeeping, dressing for the occasion, discipline and honesty. All these put you on the path to success personally and professionally. I also work out a lot. The gym enables me to keep fit and healthy and this translates in my work.
Something people do not know about you.
Before Safaricom, I used to do audio engineering. It is an interest I picked when I was young. I can do live sound mixing, console, a complete setup and rundown and maintenance.
I like music. I am always listening to jazz. Most of the time, I’m not even listening to the words, but picking out the production of the unique pieces.
Best thing someone has ever done for you.
The best thing that my parents did was giving us a good education. We are four girls, and we are all well-educated, everyone is thriving in their own field, and we have been able to carry on their legacy.
To pay it forward, I also support various boys and girls with their education in my personal capacity because I like empowering people.
Message to a young girl considering tech as a career.
My challenge to a woman considering a career in tech is take up the space. Take up the space and see what can happen. Don’t be left out. It’s a very interesting environment and career with a lot of fulfillment and exciting innovations which are life transforming for the general public.
Talk about the Women in Technology programme at Safaricom.
I went to school at JKUAT when it was nicknamed Juja Boys because in a class of 100 there maybe two or three women, that shows you how technology was male dominated.
Through the mentoring in the Safaricom Women in Technology programme change is happening.
Interaction with other women who are in the tech space gives ladies motivation and belief that they can also make it and thrive. It is a program that has really empowered the women in tech to showcase their potential and rise and eventually sit in boardrooms.
