M-PESA is a mobile money service that allows users to send and receive money, pay bills, buy goods and services, and access financial products using their mobile phones. It was launched in Kenya in 2007 by Safaricom, the leading mobile network operator in the country, in partnership with Vodafone.
Since then, it has grown to become the most widely used mobile money platform in the world, with over 40 million active customers and 200,000 agents across Kenya . M-PESA has had a profound impact on the lives of millions of Kenyans, especially those who were previously excluded from the formal financial system. It has enabled them to access convenient, affordable, and secure financial services that meet their daily needs and aspirations. It has also created new opportunities for entrepreneurship, innovation, and social development.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the ways that M-PESA has changed the game in Kenya over the past 16 years.
Financial inclusion
M-PESA has extended financial services to the unbanked and underbanked population in Kenya, providing a low-cost and accessible platform for financial transactions. M-PESA has significantly increased the access and usage of financial services among low-income and rural populations in Kenya.
According to a 2019 report by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) , the Financial Sector Deepening (FSD) Kenya, and the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) , 82% of Kenyan adults are now formally included in the financial system, up from 27% in 2006 . M-PESA accounts for 73% of this increase , making it the main driver of financial inclusion in the country.
M-PESA has also reduced the gender gap in financial access, as more women have been able to open and use mobile money accounts.
Economic empowerment
M-PESA has facilitated financial empowerment and entrepreneurship in Kenya by providing access to credit facilities, savings accounts, and other financial services that were previously unavailable to small business owners and entrepreneurs.
M-PESA has enabled millions of Kenyans to improve their livelihoods and incomes by facilitating transactions, savings, credit, insurance, and investments. For instance, M-PESA has allowed farmers to receive payments for their produce, access agricultural inputs, and insurance, and participate in digital platforms that connect them to markets and information.
M-PESA has also supported small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by enabling them to accept payments from customers, pay suppliers and employees, access working capital and business loans, and manage their cash flow .
Moreover, M-PESA has created employment opportunities for thousands of agents who earn commissions from providing cash-in and cash-out services to customers.
Social impact
M-PESA has contributed to positive social outcomes for individuals, households, and communities in Kenya. For example, M-PESA has enabled people to send and receive remittances from their relatives and friends within and outside the country, which helps them cope with shocks and emergencies, as well as invest in education, health, and other needs.
M-PESA has also facilitated charitable giving and social welfare programs by allowing people to donate to causes they care about or receive cash transfers from the government or non-governmental organizations. Furthermore, M-PESA has enhanced security and transparency by reducing the risks and costs associated with carrying or storing cash.
Government Payment
Kenya is a country that has made significant strides in mobile money adoption, with M-PESA being one of the most popular mobile money platforms globally. The service, launched by Safaricom in 2007, has revolutionized the way Kenyans conduct financial transactions, including government payments.
Related:
- eCitizen.go.ug is an online portal to access all Ugandan government’s services
- How to apply for a Kenyan Passport and how much it costs
One notable platform that has integrated M-PESA is eCitizen , the Kenyan government’s online portal for various services. Citizens can use the platform to access services like applying for passports, paying for driving licenses and accessing birth certificates. Payments for these services can be made via M-PESA, with users required to enter their mobile number and PIN to complete the transaction.
The integration of M-PESA into eCitizen has made it easier for Kenyans to access government services and pay for them conveniently, without having to visit government offices physically.
Innovation ecosystem
The success of M-PESA has inspired similar mobile money platforms in other African countries, promoting financial inclusion across the continent.
M-PESA has stimulated innovation and entrepreneurship in Kenya by creating a platform for digital solutions that leverage its infrastructure and customer base. Over the years, M-PESA has evolved from a simple money transfer service to a comprehensive digital financial service provider that offers a range of products such as savings accounts ( M-Shwari ), loans ( M-Shwari ), insurance ( M-Tiba ), bill payments ( Lipa na M-PESA ), e-commerce ( Masoko ), international remittances ( M-PESA Global ), and interoperability with banks and other mobile money operators.
Related:
- Here’s Why M-PESA Is the King of Mobile Money in Kenya
- Safaricom partners with Western Union to enable global money transfers via M-Pesa Global
M-PESA has also enabled the emergence of other innovative solutions that integrate with its application programming interface (API), such as ride-hailing (Uber, Wasili, Bolt), solar energy ( M-Kopa ), health care ( M-Tiba ), education ( Eneza ), agriculture ( DigiFarm ), and entertainment ( Showmax ).
Safer and Secure Transactions
M-PESA has provided a safer and more secure alternative to informal financial services, such as savings clubs and money lenders, by offering encrypted transactions that require a personal identification number (PIN) to access.
One way that M-PESA has contributed to safer and more secure transactions is by reducing the need for cash transactions, which can be risky and prone to theft. With M-PESA, individuals and businesses can easily send and receive money electronically, eliminating the need to carry large amounts of cash. This has greatly reduced the risks associated with cash transactions, making it safer for people to carry out their daily financial activities.
M-PESA has also contributed to safer and more secure transactions by introducing innovative features such as the M-PESA PIN and transaction notifications. The M-PESA PIN is a security feature that enables users to protect their accounts from unauthorized access. Transaction notifications, on the other hand, help users to track their transactions and detect any unauthorized activity on their accounts. These features have helped to improve the overall security of financial transactions in Kenya.
Conclusion
M-PESA has been a game-changer in Kenya’s financial sector and beyond. It has transformed the way people access and use financial services, as well as how they interact with each other and with various sectors of the economy.
It has also inspired a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that continues to generate new solutions that address the needs and challenges of Kenyans. As M-PESA celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, it is worth reflecting on its achievements and lessons learned, as well as its potential for future growth and impact.
Featured and in-post images courtesy
I’m a tech enthusiast and digital explorer based in Kenya passionate about Android, Linux, and the world of custom ROMs. I love tinkering with devices to craft personalized, optimized experiences. When I’m not deep in code or tweaking gadgets, you’ll find me immersed in science fiction, philosophy, or writing about the ever-evolving tech landscape from an African perspective.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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