Sylvia Wairimu Mulinge is a Kenyan business leader and corporate executive who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Uganda. She assumed the role on 1 October 2022, succeeding Wim Vanhelleputte. Her appointment marked a significant milestone, making her the first Kenyan to lead the Ugandan subsidiary of Africa’s largest mobile network operator.
Born and educated in Kenya, Mulinge earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Food Science and Technology from the University of Nairobi in 2000.
Mulinge began her career in 2004 with Unilever as Assistant Regional Brand Manager in the laundry division, based in Durban, South Africa, before returning to Nairobi as Brand Manager for Sunlight. In 2006, she joined Safaricom Limited, where she would build an illustrious 16-year career. Starting as Pre-Pay Product Manager, she rose through successive leadership positions including Head of Retail, Head of Safaricom Business, and General Manager for Enterprise Business. In 2015, she was appointed Director of Consumer Business and later served as Director of Special Projects and Chief Customer Officer, reporting directly to the company’s Chief Executive Officer.
In 2018, Mulinge was named CEO-designate at Vodacom Tanzania, though regulatory constraints prevented her from assuming the role. She returned to Safaricom before being appointed to lead MTN Uganda in 2022. Her extensive experience in customer strategy, brand leadership, and enterprise growth continues to define her approach to corporate transformation.
Recognized among the Top 40 Women Under 40 in Kenya by Business Daily Africa in 2014, Mulinge is celebrated for her dynamic leadership, strategic vision, and advocacy for women in business and technology across East Africa.