In a world where mobile money is king, M-Pesa continues to dominate the Kenyan landscape as the go-to platform for quick, secure transactions. But what if you need to send money to someone who uses Airtel Money, T-Kash, or another mobile wallet outside the Safaricom ecosystem?
Thanks to interoperability, introduced by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) in 2022, M-Pesa users can now seamlessly send money to other networks no hustle, no complicated steps.
Whether you’re sending funds to a friend on Airtel, a business partner on Telkom, or even yourself (if you use dual lines), this guide walks you through how to send money from M-Pesa to other mobile networks safely and efficiently.
What Is Mobile Money Interoperability?
Mobile money interoperability allows users on one network (e.g., Safaricom’s M-Pesa) to send and receive money across competing networks (e.g., Airtel Money or T-Kash). This cross-network functionality enhances financial inclusion and eliminates the need to use only one provider for all your transactions.
Steps: How to Send Money from M-Pesa to Other Networks
Sending money to a non-Safaricom number using M-Pesa is straightforward. Here’s how:
Option 1: Using M-Pesa STK Menu (Sim Toolkit)
- Go to the SIM Toolkit on your phone and select M-Pesa.
- Tap on Send Money.
- Select To Other Networks.
- Enter the recipient’s mobile number (Airtel or Telkom).
- Input the amount you wish to send.
- Enter your M-Pesa PIN to confirm.
- You’ll receive a confirmation message from M-Pesa and the recipient gets a code to withdraw from their respective network.
Option 2: Using the *334# M-Pesa USSD Code
- Dial
*334#on your Safaricom line. - Select “Send Money”.
- Choose “To Other Network”.
- Enter the recipient’s mobile number.
- Input the amount.
- Confirm details and enter PIN.
- Done! The recipient will receive a notification and instructions to withdraw or use the funds.
Option 3: Using the MySafaricom App
If you prefer a more modern interface:
- Open the MySafaricom App (Download from Play Store or App Store if you haven’t).
- Tap “M-Pesa” “Send Money” → “Other Network”.
- Input the recipient’s number and amount.
- Confirm and enter your M-Pesa PIN.
- You’ll receive a notification once the transfer is successful.
Important Notes
- The recipient will receive a code or SMS to help them access the funds.
- The maximum limit per transaction is usually KSh 150,000, but this may vary depending on regulations and network.
- Standard M-Pesa charges apply, but cross-network fees may be slightly higher.
M-Pesa to Other Networks – Current Charges
| Amount (KSh) | Fee to Other Network |
|---|---|
| 1 – 100 | KSh 0 |
| 101 – 500 | KSh 7 |
| 501 – 1,000 | KSh 13 |
| 1,001 – 1,500 | KSh 23 |
| 1,501 – 2,500 | KSh 33 |
| 2,501 – 3,500 | KSh 53 |
| 3,501 – 5,000 | KSh 57 |
| 5,001 – 7,500 | KSh 78 |
| 7,501 – 10,000 | KSh 90 |
| 10,001 – 15,000 | KSh 100 |
| 15,001 – 20,000 | KSh 105 |
| 20,001 – 35,000 | KSh 108 |
| 35,001 – 50,000 | KSh 110 |
| 50,001 – 150,000 | KSh 113 |
These are estimates and may vary depending on CBK regulations. Always confirm on the M-Pesa app or via 334#.
What Happens After Sending the Money?
- The recipient receives an SMS with a code (for withdrawal or account deposit).
- They can withdraw from an agent near them (Airtel Money or T-Kash agents).
- The money does not expire, but the recipient should withdraw within 7 days to avoid complications.
Benefits of Sending Money Across Networks via M-Pesa
- Convenience – No need to switch SIM cards or withdraw first.
- Faster access to funds for the receiver.
- Supports financial inclusion across Kenya.
- No extra charges to the recipient.
- Works for personal and business use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Double-check the recipient’s number. Cross-network reversals take longer.
- Confirm network compatibility (Airtel or Telkom only).
- Keep the SMS with transaction code safe (for both sender and recipient).
Final Thoughts
Sending money to other networks from M-Pesa has never been easier, thanks to mobile money interoperability. Whether you’re a small business owner, a student, or someone supporting family across networks, this feature brings convenience, flexibility, and efficiency to your fingertips.
Always use My Safaricom App, SIM Toolkit, or *334# for secure transactions and keep transaction records just in case!
