How to Easily Link PayPal to M-PESA App and Access Your Funds in Kenya

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Safaricom Integrates PayPal Withdrawals into M-PESA App for Kenyan Users

Safaricom has launched a new feature in the M-PESA app that enables users to withdraw funds directly from PayPal, eliminating the need for external platforms or web logins. The update simplifies international transactions, targeting Kenya’s expanding base of freelancers, digital entrepreneurs, and remote workers who rely heavily on PayPal for cross-border payments.

This move is part of a broader strategy to empower digital-first users and small businesses. It aligns with the growing demand for mobile financial services that offer speed, convenience, and full control. The new PayPal feature is currently available for Android users under the “Global Payments” section of the app.

Step-by-Step: Link PayPal to M-PESA App

  1. Install or Update M-PESA App

    • Ensure you have the latest version of the M-PESA Super App from the Google Play Store.

  2. Open the App & Go to Global Payments

    • Scroll to the “Global Payments” section on the home screen.

  3. Tap on the PayPal Icon

    • Select the PayPal option to begin linking your account.

  4. Log in to PayPal

    • Enter your PayPal credentials and grant permission to link with M-PESA.

How to Withdraw from PayPal to M-PESA

  1. Access the PayPal Option Again in the M-PESA App

  2. Choose “Withdraw”

  3. Enter the Amount in USD

    • The app will display the equivalent in Kenyan Shillings, along with:

      • Exchange rate

      • Estimated processing time

  4. Confirm the Transaction

  5. Wait for Funds

    • Your money will be credited to your M-PESA wallet within 2 hours to 3 days, depending on the transaction size.

How to Confirm Your Phone Number on PayPal

On the PayPal Website:

  1. Log in to your PayPal account and click the Settings (gear) icon.

  2. Under Phone Numbers, click Add New or select an existing number to update.

  3. Enter your mobile number with the correct country code.

  4. Click Add phone number.

  5. Choose to receive a confirmation code via text or call.

  6. Enter the code to verify and confirm the number.

On the PayPal Mobile App:

  1. Open the PayPal app and tap the Profile icon.

  2. Tap Account Info, then go to Phone Numbers.

  3. Tap Add a phone number, input your number, and tap Add.

  4. To confirm, select the number and tap Resend Code if needed.

  5. Enter the SMS code and tap Confirm Number.

Step-by-Step Summary

Platform Action
Website Settings → Phone Numbers → Add or Change → Add phone number → Text or Call → Validate code
App Profile → Account Info → Phone Numbers → Add → Resend Code → Confirm Number

Tips and Common Issues

  • The SMS confirmation code expires quickly, so enter it promptly.

  • Always use the correct country code (e.g., +254 for Kenya).

  • A number already linked to another PayPal account must be removed from the old account before it can be added to a new one.

  • If you don’t receive the code, try restarting your phone or using the call verification option.

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