Safaricom enables direct PayPal withdrawals via M-Pesa app for Kenyan users

The move is aimed at supporting Kenya’s fast-growing community of freelancers, remote workers, and digital entrepreneurs, many of whom depend on PayPal for international payments.
Safaricom has rolled out a new feature allowing users to withdraw funds from PayPal directly through the M‑Pesa app, marking a major step forward in convenience and integration.
The move is aimed at supporting Kenya’s fast-growing community of freelancers, remote workers, and digital entrepreneurs, many of whom depend on PayPal for international payments.
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Previously, users had to navigate web portals, use third-party brokers, or log in multiple times to complete withdrawals. With this update, the process is streamlined—PayPal funds can now be transferred straight to M‑Pesa with just a few taps on a smartphone.
Safaricom reports that the M‑Pesa app has been downloaded 13.7 million times, with 4.7 million active users. Wallet limits now stand at Sh500,000 (about $3,875), with per-transaction caps of Sh250,000 ($1,938), and a daily maximum of Sh500,000.
By embedding PayPal directly into its platform, Safaricom is offering a smoother, faster alternative to traditional withdrawal methods like Equity Bank’s PayPal service, which relies on interbank transfers.
This positions M‑Pesa as a key tool for the digital economy, empowering small businesses and individual users alike.
How to Withdraw from PayPal Using the M‑Pesa app (Android only)
• Install or update the latest M‑Pesa super app on your Android device.
• Scroll down to the Global Payments section and tap the PayPal logo. Log in and link your PayPal account.
• Choose to withdraw or deposit, then enter the amount in USD.
• View the equivalent in Kenyan shillings, along with the exchange rate and estimated processing time.
• Confirm the transfer.
Your funds will be credited to your M‑Pesa wallet within 2 hours to 3 days, depending on the transaction size.
This mobile-first solution eliminates the need for bank intermediaries or third-party platforms. It’s faster, safer, and designed to meet the needs of modern users who want full financial control from their phones.
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