Safaricom Adds PayPal Withdrawals to M-PESA App to Woo Kenya’s Remote Workers
Nairobi, Kenya — July 24, 2025.
Safaricom has rolled out in-app PayPal withdrawals inside the M-PESA super app, allowing Kenyan users to move money from PayPal to their mobile wallets without visiting an external web portal. This update targets freelancers, remote workers, and digital entrepreneurs who receive payments from international clients.
The PayPal option is now available as a mini app within the M-PESA app and simplifies what was previously a complex, multi-step process. Users can authenticate once, link their PayPal accounts, and initiate withdrawals directly in-app, streamlining the user experience and reducing login-related frustrations.
Transfer times have improved significantly. Most withdrawals are now processed within minutes to a few hours, although larger transactions may still take longer. This is a marked improvement over the previous process, which could take up to three days.
By integrating PayPal into the app, Safaricom is positioning M-PESA as a stronger competitor to existing withdrawal options such as Equity Bank and international fintech platforms like Wise and Payoneer. The company aims to retain transaction volume within its ecosystem by offering more convenience to its users.
The launch aligns with recent growth trends in Safaricom’s mobile money segment. M-PESA continues to see increased revenue and transaction activity, and the addition of new financial tools like this is part of Safaricom’s broader strategy to boost user engagement.
Key Limits & Fees to Watch
M-PESA wallets currently support balances up to KES 500,000, with a per-transaction limit of KES 250,000. Daily limits are aligned with the wallet maximum. Applicable fees and exchange rates are displayed before transaction confirmation, and users are encouraged to review them carefully.
How to Withdraw PayPal Funds in the M-PESA App
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Open or update the M-PESA app.
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Navigate to the PayPal option under the Finance or Global section.
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Sign in to PayPal and link your account (ensure the names match).
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Enter the withdrawal amount and review the fees and exchange rate.
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Confirm and receive the funds within minutes or a few hours.
Why This Matters for Kenya’s Remote Workforce
Kenya’s growing remote work and freelance economy depends heavily on cross-border payments, with PayPal remaining a key platform for income from international clients. The ability to access funds quickly and directly through the M-PESA app improves efficiency, convenience, and financial flexibility for thousands of digital workers.