Sylvia Mulinge: A monumental Personality Transforming Africa’s Telecom Landscape
In the fast-paced world of telecommunications, few names shine as brightly as Sylvia Wairimu Mulinge. From her modest beginnings in Kenya to leading one of Africa’s top telecom operators, MTN Uganda, Sylvia’s journey is a testament to resilience, visionary leadership, and an unrelenting drive to make impact.

From Food Science to Boardrooms
Born around 1980 in Kenya, Sylvia’s early education took place at St. Xavier’s Primary in Nakuru and Mary Mount Secondary School. She graduated in 2000 from the University of Nairobi with a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science and Technology—an unexpected foundation for a future telecom executive.

Her professional journey began at Unilever, where she worked as an Assistant Regional Brand Manager in Durban, South Africa, before returning to Kenya to manage the Sunlight brand. It was in 2006, however, that she made the career-defining leap into the telecommunications sector by joining Safaricom, Kenya’s leading mobile operator.

Rising Through the Ranks at Safaricom
Sylvia’s 16-year tenure at Safaricom was marked by a consistent rise through leadership positions. She held key roles including Pre-pay Product Manager, Head of Retail, Head of Sales, General Manager of Enterprise Business, Director of Consumer Business, and ultimately Chief Consumer Business Officer. Her strategic oversight played a vital role in the evolution of M-Pesa and the expansion of Safaricom’s digital, voice, and data services.

In 2018, she was appointed CEO of Vodacom Tanzania. However, a denied work permit halted that transition. Rather than being discouraged, Sylvia pivoted into a strategic special projects role at Safaricom, demonstrating her resilience and adaptability in the face of professional obstacles.

Leading MTN Uganda into a New Era
On October 1, 2022, Sylvia assumed the role of CEO at MTN Uganda—the first woman to ever hold this position. Her impact was immediate and profound. Under her leadership:
• The subscriber base grew by approximately 30%, from 16.7 million at the end of 2021 to over 21.6 million by the end of 2024.
• Revenue and profit figures soared, with a 29.6% increase in profits in the first nine months of 2024, reaching UGX 459 billion.
• The company secured UGX 370 billion (approximately USD 100 million) for a major network expansion, significantly boosting 4G coverage across Uganda.
Her transformative leadership has earned MTN Uganda multiple accolades for innovation, customer service, and corporate social responsibility.

Recognitions and Accolades
Sylvia’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. Her awards and recognitions include:
• Best CEO across MTN’s 20 African markets (MTN Global Leadership Gathering 2025, Johannesburg).
• Uganda’s Leading and Most Admired CEO (CEO East Africa, 2024).
• Top 45 Women in Digital Transformation (CIO Africa, 2023).
• 100 Most Influential African Women (Avance Media, 2020).
• Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (Kenya, 2022).
• Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum (2015).

Beyond the Boardroom
Sylvia’s influence extends beyond corporate circles. She currently chairs the board of MTN Mobile Money Uganda and the Maasai Mara Wildlife Conservancies Association in Kenya. She’s also involved in The President’s Award – Kenya, a youth empowerment program.

As a certified executive coach, Sylvia is passionate about mentoring young African leaders, especially women. She promotes purpose-driven leadership and prioritizes employee well-being, mental health, and family life.
Despite her demanding schedule, Sylvia is a dedicated mother of two teenagers and a fitness enthusiast. She has become a symbol of balance—proving that ambition, family, and personal well-being can coexist.

An Inspirational Force in Africa
Sylvia Mulinge’s story is more than just a corporate success—it’s an inspiring narrative of breaking barriers, leading with empathy, and reshaping industries. Her legacy continues to grow, not just in the boardroom, but in every life she touches through her leadership and mentorship.

As Africa’s telecom sector evolves, Sylvia Mulinge remains one of its most compelling figures—an embodiment of what it means to lead with purpose, courage, and vision.