After five thrilling days of the M-PESA Sokoni Caravan winding through the Western and Nyanza regions, Safaricom brought the celebrations to a spectacular close on Saturday with the M-PESA Sokoni Festival at Mamboleo Stadium in Kisumu.

The festival turned the stadium into a lively market, bringing together more than 100 local businesses.

It was a vibrant showcase of entrepreneurship, with amazing “deals kuruka” on devices, electronics, household goods, beauty and fashion products, travel packages, and much more.

Crowds streamed in to grab the unbeatable offers and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

“We have brought you all together not only to celebrate, but also to say thank you, to reward our customers with amazing deals and to support the growth of small businesses right here in Kisumu,” said Safaricom Chief Financial Services Officer Esther Waititu.

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She added: “Merchants play a critical role in driving our local economy, they are the backbone of our communities, creating jobs, offering essential goods and services, and powering everyday transactions. Their success is our collective success.”

The day was also about giving back to customers with shoppers walking away with gifts ranging from shopping vouchers to smartphones, electronics, and surprise rewards.

The celebrations came as M-PESA commemorated its 18th anniversary and Safaricom celebrated hitting 50 million customers ahead of its 25th birthday scheduled for October.

For many small business owners, the event was a game changer and shoe vendor Felix Kamadi was elated as he managed to sell triple the pairs he normally sells in a single day.

“On a typical day, I sell around ten pairs, but today I have nearly tripled that, maybe even more. I have gained new customers, and I can confidently say I am a happy man,” Kamadi said gleefully.

He lauded Safaricom for the festival that he says has transformed his life permanenetly.

“I am truly grateful to Safaricom for creating this platform, not just for me, but for many other businesses here today that are also recording impressive sales.

“I would even encourage Safaricom to consider bringing M-PESA Sokoni to Mamboleo on a monthly or quarterly basis.”

The crowd roared with excitement during the “M-PESA or the Box” game as lucky winners took home exciting prizes, with Cynthia Meyo from Kisumu scooping the grand prize of Sh180,000.

As the sun set on the lakeside town, the stadium lit up with electrifying performances from Apesi, Ssaru, Meja, King Kaka, Musa Jakadala, Khaligraph Jones, and Coster Ojwang.

The music, energy, and festivity emphasized Safaricom’s strong support for Kenya’s music and arts that continues to enable talent, promote culture, and bring communities together.

The weeklong celebration featured the Safire Connect forum for agri-entrepreneurs, the Wezesha Mama programme, the “Grow with Safaricom” Business Forum, M-PESA Agent Awards, Safaricom Hook for the youth, and vibrant market activations.

Now, after a resounding success in the Greater Western region, the M-PESA Sokoni Caravan is scheduled to roll into Nairobi this week for the grand finale of the regional tours.