Safaricom’s M‑PESA has reached 40 million monthly active customers in Kenya. They mark a major milestone as the platform celebrates 19 years since its launch in 2007. The achievement highlights the growing role of mobile-led financial ecosystems in shaping Kenya’s digital economy and expanding access to financial services.
Originally introduced on 6th March, 2007 as a simple person-to-person money transfer service. M-PESA has evolved into a broad digital financial platform embedded in everyday commerce. What began as a way for Kenyans to send money across distances has expanded into a suite of services. Including investment tools such as Ziidi MMF and Ziidi Trader, credit services like Fuliza and KCB M‑PESA. As well as merchant solutions such as Lipa na M‑PESA, Pochi la Biashara and Global Pay.
“Our goal is to give Kenyans, and Africa at large, digital financial tools to empower them to be more prosperous. Reaching 40 million monthly active customers in Kenya is a milestone we celebrate. As we recommit to enable every Kenyan to transact safely, grow their savings, and build their wealth. To us, every M-PESA transaction tells a story of someone building their future,” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom PLC.
M-PESA, from a Payment Platform to Financial Ecosystem
Over nearly two decades, M-PESA has expanded far beyond payments to become a digital financial infrastructure supporting households, entrepreneurs and small businesses. Merchant solutions now power everyday retail transactions, while integrated credit and investment services allow users to borrow, save and grow wealth directly from their mobile devices.
Under its Fintech 2.0 strategy, Safaricom has focused on deepening the platform’s capabilities around savings, investment and financial planning, transforming the mobile wallet into a broader personal finance hub.
Strengthening Security and Financial Access in Kenya
Over the past year, Safaricom has increased investments in technology, fraud-prevention systems and customer education to strengthen M-PESA reliability and safeguard users in an increasingly digital financial environment. These efforts have been central to maintaining trust among millions of users who rely on the platform for daily transactions.
The M-PESA platform’s evolution also reflects a broader shift across Africa toward mobile-led financial inclusion. Digital infrastructure is helping bridge longstanding gaps in access to formal banking systems.
Safaricom says innovation will remain central to M-PESA next phase of growth. The company will continue to focus on expanding financial wellness tools. In addition to ensuring that more Kenyans regardless of income or geography can access the digital services needed to save, invest and build long-term prosperity.
“M-PESA remains committed to ensuring that everyone has the confidence and tools to navigate life’s financial journey,” Ndegwa added.
