The process of how to send money across East Africa was a tedious one before mobile money crossed borders. Now, services like M-Pesa, MTN Mobile Money, Airtel Money, and others are no longer restricted to domestic transfers.
Countries, families, and businesses across borders can make transactions that are processed instantly in real time. In this guide, we’ll address how one can send money across borders in East Africa with ease.
How to Send Money from Vodacom Tanzania to Safaricom M-Pesa in Kenya
One of the most active mobile money corridors is between Tanzania and Kenya, linking Vodacom’s M-Pesa and Safaricom’s M-Pesa, the two largest telecom and fintech players in the region.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Dial
*150*00#on your Vodacom mobile line. - Select “Send Money,” then “International Transfers.”
- Choose “M-Pesa Kenya.”
- Enter the recipient’s Kenyan mobile number (starting with +254 7…).
- Input the amount in Tanzanian Shillings (TSH) you wish to send.
- Select the reason for the transfer.
- Confirm the exchange rate, charges, and recipient details.
- Enter your M-Pesa PIN to complete the transfer.
The recipient receives Kenyan Shillings (KES) instantly in their Safaricom M-Pesa wallet.
Other Cross-Border Mobile Money Services
Beyond Tanzania and Kenya, other countries in the region are integrating mobile money systems:
Uganda
- MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money Uganda support international transfers to Kenya, Rwanda, and Tanzania.
- Users can send money via USSD (e.g., *165# on MTN) or using mobile apps.
Rwanda
- M-Pesa Rwanda now allows direct transfers with Kenya and Uganda.
- The country is actively integrating with regional payment systems to simplify trade and remittances.
Burundi and South Sudan
- Cross-border capabilities are still emerging but expected to expand as providers align with EAC frameworks.
Tips for Safe and Smooth Cross-Border Transfers
- Always confirm the recipient’s number and country code.
- Use official USSD codes or apps to avoid scams.
- Make sure your mobile money account is fully registered with proper ID.
- Double-check exchange rates and final amounts before confirming.
Telecom operators, regulators, and central banks are working to:
- Establish a unified payments infrastructure across borders.
- Promote currency exchange automation.
- Reduce remittance costs to under 3%.
- Expand financial inclusion for rural and underserved populations.
With every successful transfer, East Africa is proving that mobile-first economies can overtake outdated banking systems.
