Safaricom has announced that its mobile money platform, M-PESA, now serves over 40 million customers, a milestone reached as the service marks 19 years since its launch on March 6, 2007. 

The platform's steady customer growth underscores the fintech's evolution from a person-to-person money transfer tool into a comprehensive financial ecosystem embedded in the daily lives of consumers and businesses globally.

What began as a solution for sending remittances in 2007 has since expanded into a suite of financial products spanning investment and lately wealth management through Ziidi MMF and Ziidi Trader.

Earlier, the platform evolved, offering credit services including Fuliza and KCB M-PESA, and business solutions such as Lipa na M-PESA, Pochi la Biashara, and Global Pay. 

The 40-million customer count reflects not only the platform’s reach but also its central role in driving financial inclusion across Kenya, offering a case study in how mobile network operators have successfully pivoted into financial services

“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, Safaricom PLC. 

Over the past year, the company said continued investments in technology, enhanced fraud-prevention systems and customer education have further strengthened M-PESA’s security, usability, and overall reliability for millions of Kenyans.

Under Fintech 2.0, M-PESA has transformed how Kenyans can save, invest and manage money directly from their mobile devices, while safeguarding both funds and personal data in an increasingly digital world. 

The initiative has also lowered barriers to entry in wealth-building opportunities, making it possible for more Kenyans to plan, save and invest.

As digital financial services expand across Africa, M-PESA’s growth reflects a broader shift toward mobile-led inclusion, where technology bridges gaps in access to formal financial systems. 

Looking ahead, M-PESA continues to innovate with the same purpose that has guided it for 19 years to make financial wellness accessible to every Kenyan, no matter where they live, what they earn or what their dreams may be. 

“M-PESA remains committed to ensuring that everyone has the confidence and tools to navigate life’s financial journey” Ndegwa noted.

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