Safaricom’s M-PESA re-certified on the global stage

Cash transfer platform M-PESA has been re-certified by the GSM Association, recognizing Safaricom’s commitment to providing secure, transparent, and reliable financial services to millions of customers.

Founded in 2007, M-PESA was one of the pioneer mobile money transfer services to receive this accreditation in 2018 and has consistently maintained its certification.

Safaricom PLC CEO Peter Ndegwa lauded the achievement, stating, “Certification is a sign that our business practices are among the best in the industry, that we are a providing a secure, transparent and reliable mobile money service. That we are a trustworthy and responsible mobile financial service provider, and therefore an attractive candidate for collaboration with innovators and the business community.”

The GSMA Mobile Money Certification is a global standard aimed at ensuring the safety and robustness of mobile money services.

It ensures that certified providers adhere to principles that protect customer funds, safeguarding customer data, guaranteeing system security, maintaining transparency on fees, and effectively managing customer service issues, including complaints.

The certification underscores M-PESA’s provision of worry-free payment services and highlights the importance of combating financial crimes such as money laundering and fraud.

This re-certification not only boosts consumer trust but also facilitates stronger commercial partnerships and sets a benchmark for the mobile money industry. With over 690 million registered accounts globally, mobile money services are significantly contributing to financial inclusion and improving lives worldwide.

Currently, there are 31.5 million active M-PESA users, processing over Kes40.2 trillion in transactions annually, as at the end of March 2024.