In a heartwarming tale of hope and transformation, 24-year-old Kepher Okoth Ooko, a humble motorcycle mechanic from Kanga Junction, Migori County, has become the latest millionaire in Kenya. Okoth won an astounding KES 5 million through Safaricom’s “Shine Kenya Shinda Mamilii Kama Bingwa” promotion, a campaign designed to reward and empower customers across the country.
Okoth, a father of two, couldn’t believe his luck when he purchased a KES 20 data bundle, which earned him an entry into the life-changing draw. His world was turned upside down when Safaricom called to inform him that he had won the grand prize. “I am still in disbelief since I received the call. This is a miracle and a huge blessing for me and my entire family,” said Okoth, who was joined by his wife, Zuhura Akoth, at the award ceremony held at Safaricom’s Nairobi headquarters.
With the prize money, Okoth plans to invest in his future and improve the lives of those around him. He shared his ambitious plans, including opening his own motorcycle repair garage, buying a piece of land, building a house, and purchasing a 14-seater matatu to venture into the transport business. He also aims to support his wife by helping her establish a business. “I never imagined that someone like me would ever become a millionaire,” he expressed with gratitude.
But the winnings didn’t stop there. In addition to the KES 5 million, Okoth received an extra KES 1 million from the Safaricom Foundation to fund a community project of his choice. Demonstrating his commitment to giving back, he chose to renovate and furnish three classrooms and install a water connection at Kitere Primary School, his alma mater. This generous gesture will positively impact the lives of students for years to come.
The “Shine Kenya Shinda Mamilii Kama Bingwa” promotion, launched in June, has not only changed individual lives but also uplifted entire communities. Each of the 30 weekly millionaires won an additional KES 250,000 for a community project, ensuring the ripple effect of positive change reaches beyond the winners. The initiative aligns with Safaricom’s Ndoto Zetu Uwezo Wetu program, which supports impactful community projects such as building classrooms, providing clean water, and improving healthcare.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa spoke passionately about the campaign’s broader impact: “Today, we not only celebrate our 31st millionaire but also the 31 community projects that will benefit thousands of Kenyans. When we began this campaign, we had our customers and the community in mind, aiming to celebrate and empower them by transforming their lives across the country. We believe that true success is shared success, and by supporting community initiatives, we can create a ripple effect of positive change.”
Along with the 31 millionaires, thousands of other customers have benefited from daily and weekly prizes, including KES 31.5 million in M-PESA cashbacks and data bundles for over 200,000 users. This promotion stands as a testament to Safaricom’s commitment to empowering its customers and communities across Kenya.
Kepher Okoth’s story is an inspiring reminder that life can change in an instant, and that even the smallest opportunity can lead to incredible rewards. Safaricom’s promotion has not only transformed his life but will leave a lasting legacy in his community, demonstrating that true success comes from giving back.
