How to Make a Reverse Call on Safaricom

Sometimes you may need to make a call but lack airtime. Safaricom’s Reverse Call service allows you to place a call even without credit by letting the receiver take on the cost. Designed for Safaricom-to-Safaricom calls only, this feature offers a convenient backup to emergency connectivity particularly helpful when friends or family members have credit.

What Is Safaricom Reverse Call?

Introduced in June 2019, the Reverse Call service lets users initiate calls on Safaricom and transfer the charge to the recipient. To initiate, simply add a hash (#) before the recipient’s number. When they answer, they’re prompted to either accept or decline the charges before the call connects.

Step-by-Step: How to Place a Reverse Call

1. Open your phone’s dialer.
2. Dial a # followed by the Safaricom number you wish to call (e.g., #0722000000).
3. Press call. The recipient will see your number as usual.
4. When they pick up, an automated voice message alerts them they will be billed unless they decline.
5. They press 1 to accept (and pay) or 2 to decline. If declined or unanswered, the call ends and no one is charged.

Terms, Conditions & Limits

• Eligibility: Available to all Safaricom PrePay, Hybrid, and PostPay subscribers.
• Call Restrictions: Only works for Safaricom-to-Safaricom local calls. It cannot be used for off-net, roaming, or international calls.
• Airtime Requirement: The receiver must have sufficient airtime for the call to proceed.

Important Update: Daily Limits & Charges

• The first two reverse calls per day are free for the caller.
• From the third call onward, each reverse call attempt incurs a KSh 0.50 fee, charged even if the recipient declines.

Usage Scenarios & Tips

• Ideal for emergency situations or when you’re out of airtime but need to reach someone urgently.
• Unlike the “Please Call Me” service (130number#), the reverse call connects you in real time if accepted.
• Recipients should listen carefully and act promptly pressing 2 will prevent charges if they don’t wish to pay.

Why It Matters

• This feature offers a backup communication method when airtime is low.
• Maintaining contact in rural areas or during power outages becomes easier.
• It reflects Safaricom’s approach to user-centered innovation in customer service and telecommunications accessibility.

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