I wanted to send money from M-Pesa to someone on Airtel, but I didn’t know the exact process. Many people think you can only send money within Safaricom, but M-Pesa Tuma Popote makes cross-network transfers possible.
If you want to send money to Airtel Money or T-Kash, here’s a simple guide.
Quick Answer
To send money via M-Pesa Tuma Popote, dial *334#, select send money → other networks, enter number, amount, and confirm with your PIN.
What Is M-Pesa Tuma Popote?
M-Pesa Tuma Popote is a service by Safaricom PLC that allows you to:
- Send money to Airtel Money users
- Send money to Telkom (T-Kash) users
- Transfer funds across networks easily
👉 It works via USSD (*334#).
Who Can Use Tuma Popote?
You can use this service if:
- You have a registered M-Pesa account
- The recipient uses:
- Airtel Money
- Telkom T-Kash
👉 You can also send to unregistered users.
Step-by-Step: How to Send Money via M-Pesa Tuma Popote
*Step 1: Dial 334#
Open your phone and dial *334#.
Step 2: Select Send Money
Choose Send Money option.
Step 3: Select Other Networks
Tap Send to Other Network.
Step 4: Enter Mobile Number
Input the recipient’s phone number.
Step 5: Enter Amount
Enter the amount you want to send.
Step 6: Enter M-Pesa PIN
Key in your M-Pesa PIN.
Step 7: Confirm Transaction
Review details and press OK.
Transaction Limits for Tuma Popote
- Minimum amount: KSh 101
- Maximum amount: KSh 150,000
- Daily M-Pesa limits apply
How the Recipient Gets the Money
- Money is sent directly to their mobile wallet
- They can:
- Withdraw
- Transfer
- Pay bills
👉 Withdrawal charges depend on their network.
What If You Send Money to the Wrong Number?
If you make a mistake:
- Call Safaricom immediately
- Send SMS to 100 or 200
- Request a transaction reversal
Extra Tips and Best Practices
- Always confirm the recipient number
- Double-check amount before sending
- Save confirmation SMS
- Send small test amount if unsure
- Know applicable charges
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sending to wrong number
- Forgetting to confirm network
- Ignoring transaction limits
- Entering wrong PIN repeatedly
- Delaying reversal request
FAQ
Can I send money from M-Pesa to Airtel?
Yes, using Tuma Popote service.
What is the code for Tuma Popote?
Dial *334#.
Can I send to unregistered users?
Yes, but different charges may apply.
Conclusion
Sending money across networks using M-Pesa Tuma Popote is simple and fast. Just dial *334# and follow the steps carefully to complete your transfer.
