M-Pesa revolutionized mobile money and remains the gold standard for mobile payments. With over 50 million users in Kenya, it's the fastest and most convenient way to send money. Here's your complete guide.
What Is M-Pesa?
M-Pesa (M for mobile, Pesa is Swahili for money) launched in Kenya in 2007 and transformed how people send and receive money. Today, M-Pesa processes billions of dollars in transactions annually.
- Available 24/7
- Instant transfers
- Massive agent network for cash-out
- Used for everything from bills to shopping
- No bank account needed
How to Send Money to M-Pesa
Required Information
- Recipient's Safaricom phone number (starts with +254 7XX)
- Recipient's registered name
That's it! No bank details, account numbers, or branch codes needed.
Step-by-Step with Stratum Remit
- Open Stratum Remit and say "Send money to Kenya"
- Select your recipient or add new M-Pesa details
- Enter the amount in USD
- Review the KES amount they'll receive
- Confirm with Face ID or fingerprint
- Done! Money arrives instantly
Or simply say: "Hey Kora, send $50 to Dad's M-Pesa"
M-Pesa Limits in Kenya
- Per transaction: KES 150,000 (~$1,150)
- Daily: KES 300,000 (~$2,300)
- KES 300,000 (~$2,300)
For larger amounts, consider bank transfers or splitting into multiple transactions.
Exchange Rates: USD to KES
The Kenya Shilling (KES) is relatively stable compared to other African currencies. Current rates hover around 129-155 KES per USD depending on the provider.
- Compare providers before sending
- Set up rate alerts with Kora
- Avoid weekend transfers if rate-sensitive
- Send larger amounts less frequently to maximize any promotions
Beyond M-Pesa: Other Options in Kenya
While M-Pesa dominates, other options exist:
Airtel Money - Second largest mobile money provider - Phone numbers start with +254 73X or +254 78X - Good coverage in major cities
Bank Transfers Major banks for direct deposits: - Equity Bank - KCB (Kenya Commercial Bank) - Co-operative Bank - Standard Chartered Kenya
Common Questions
Q: Can I send to any Safaricom number? A: The number must be registered for M-Pesa. Most Kenyan Safaricom users have M-Pesa activated.
Q: What if I enter the wrong number? A: Always double-check! Once sent, M-Pesa transfers are instant and difficult to reverse.
Q: Does my recipient need a smartphone? A: No! M-Pesa works on any phone, including basic feature phones.
Q: Can they cash out immediately? A: Yes, at any M-Pesa agent. There are over 250,000 agents across Kenya.
Why Stratum Remit for M-Pesa Transfers
- Zero fees - Your $50 sends the full $50 value
- Instant delivery - Money arrives in seconds
- Best rates - Competitive KES exchange rates
- Simple - Just tell Kora who and how much
Security Tips
- Verify the phone number with your recipient before sending
- Start with a small test if it's a new recipient
- Keep confirmation messages as proof of transfer
- Never share PINs - Stratum Remit will never ask for M-Pesa PINs
Conclusion
Sending money to M-Pesa in Kenya is fast, easy, and reliable. With Stratum Remit, you get zero fees and instant delivery—just tell Kora who you want to send to, and the money arrives in seconds. It's the way remittances should work.