Safaricom has unveiled updated M-Pesa charges and policies for 2025, introducing changes aimed at enhancing service convenience and security. The new rates, transaction limits, and updated documentation requirements are effective immediately.
One notable change is the harmonization of charges for sending money across networks. Transfers to Airtel Money and Telkom’s T-Kash now cost the same as Safaricom-to-Safaricom transactions. For instance, sending Ksh 1,000 will attract a fee of Ksh 13, irrespective of the recipient’s network. However, transfers to unregistered users have been discontinued to curb fraud and money laundering.
The updated transaction rates are as follows:
Sending Money: Charges range from Ksh 7 for transactions between Ksh 101 and Ksh 500, up to Ksh 108 for transactions above Ksh 50,001. Transfers below Ksh 50 remain free.
Withdrawals: Withdrawal fees at M-Pesa agents start at Ksh 11 for amounts between Ksh 50 and Ksh 100 and increase based on the transaction amount, reaching Ksh 309 for withdrawals between Ksh 50,001 and Ksh 250,000. ATM withdrawal charges range from Ksh 35 to Ksh 203, depending on the amount withdrawn.
Other Services: Deposits, balance inquiries, PIN changes, and airtime purchases through M-Pesa remain free of charge.
Transaction limits have also been clarified. The maximum amount for a single transaction is Ksh 250,000, with a daily transaction and account balance limit of Ksh 500,000. Withdrawals below Ksh 50 at M-Pesa agents are not permitted, and customers cannot deposit directly into another M-Pesa user’s account at agent outlets.
Safaricom continues to offer self-reversal options for accidental transactions. Customers can initiate reversals by forwarding the transaction confirmation to 456. For registration, Kenyan Passports and National IDs are accepted at M-Pesa agent outlets, while foreign documents like passports, military IDs, and foreigner certificates are valid only at Safaricom Shops and Care Desks.
The company emphasized its commitment to improving customer experience and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Customers seeking assistance can dial 100 for PrePay, 200 for PostPay, or use *234# for self-service options.
These updates reflect Safaricom’s ongoing efforts to streamline services, enhance security, and provide greater value to its customers in 2025.
Business
China’s Rare Earth Export Curbs Threaten India’s EV Growth Plans
India’s electric vehicle (EV) industry is facing growing concerns after China imposed new export restrictions on rare earth magnets, a move that could disrupt supply chains if delays stretch beyond a month.
Zenith Bank Set to Exit CBN Forbearance by End of June
Zenith Bank Plc, Nigeria’s largest bank by Tier-1 Capital, has confirmed that it will exit the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) regulatory forbearance by June 30, 2025.