M-Pesa users will no longer be able to send money to unregistered numbers in a new communication from Kenya’s telecommunications giant, Safaricom in a move to “drive financial inclusion and ensure that no one, no matter the network, is left behind.”
Safaricom, in a statement released on Saturday, “Effective February 5th, 2024, you will no longer be able to send money from M-PESA to unregistered mobile money customers.”
The company however noted that registered users will continue enjoying all services such as sending to and receiving cash from varied mobile money providers.
“As a registered mobile money customer, you will be able to send and receive money across different mobile money providers such as Airtel and T-Kash,” read the statement.
Here is the statement:
Currently, the number of unregistered M-Pesa users is only 49,500 with the new directive tailored towards the remaining number of registers.
According to Safaricom, this change aligns with the Central Bank of Kenya’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing regulations. It also ensures the safety and security of your transactions. “When you try to send money, you’ll receive a message stating that the recipient isn’t registered.”
“We encourage customers who are not registered for mobile money services to register with their preferred mobile service provider to continue enjoying this service. Safaricom customers can register by visiting a Safaricom Shop or M-PESA Agent with their ID.”
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