How to Make Payments from the Diaspora to Kenya

Are you a Kenyan living abroad and looking for the most efficient and cost-effective way to send money back home? With the rise of technology, transferring funds across borders has never been easier. This guide will provide you with valuable information on various methods to send money from the diaspora to Kenya.

Understanding the Options: Popular Methods for Sending Money

• Mobile Money Transfer Services:
  • M-Pesa: One of the most widely used mobile money services in Kenya, offering a quick and secure way to send funds.
  • Airtel Money: Another popular option, providing similar services to M-Pesa.
• Traditional Money Transfer Services:
  • Western Union: A global leader in money transfers, offering a wide network of agents worldwide.
  • MoneyGram: Another well-established company providing money transfer services.
• Online Remittance Services:
  • WorldRemit: A digital platform that allows you to send money directly to bank accounts or mobile wallets.
  • Remitly: Another online service offering competitive rates and fast transfer times.
• Bank Transfers:
  • If you have a bank account in Kenya, you can transfer funds directly from your overseas account.

 

Sending Money from the US/Diaspora to Kenya via M-Pesa

M-Pesa is a popular mobile money transfer service in Kenya, offering a convenient and secure way to send funds. Here’s how you can send money from the USA to Kenya using M-Pesa:

1. Choose a M-Pesa partner: Several international money transfer services allow you to send funds directly to M-Pesa accounts. Some popular options include WorldRemit, Western Union, and MoneyGram.
2. Provide recipient details: Enter the recipient’s M-Pesa number and personal information.
3. Select the amount: Choose the amount you want to send.
4. Pay: Use your preferred payment method, such as credit card, debit card, or bank transfer.
5. Confirm: Review the details and confirm the transaction.

Note: Fees and exchange rates may vary depending on the service provider you choose.

Here’s a guide on how to send money to Kenya from the Diaspora using Remitly:

1. Create an account: Visit the Remitly website or download the app and sign up for a free account.  
2. Provide recipient’s details: Enter the recipient’s full name, phone number, and bank account details or M-Pesa number.  
3. Choose transfer amount and method: Select the amount you want to send and the preferred delivery method (bank deposit, cash pickup, or mobile money).  
4. Select payment method: Choose how you want to pay for the transfer (debit card, credit card, bank transfer, etc.).  
5. Review and confirm: Review the transfer details and confirm the transaction.
6. Track the transfer: You can track the status of your transfer through the Remitly app or website.  

 

How Long Does Remitly Take to Send Money to Kenya?

Remitly typically takes a few minutes to a few days to complete a transfer to Kenya. The exact time may vary depending on the delivery method and the recipient’s location. For more information, you can check Remitly’s website or contact their customer support.

Here’s a guide on how to send money to Kenya from the Diaspora using WorldRemit

WorldRemit is a popular online money transfer service that allows you to send funds to Kenya from various countries. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

1. Create an Account

• Visit the WorldRemit website or download their app.
• Sign up for a free account by providing your personal details.

2. Select Your Destination

• Choose “Kenya” as your destination country.

3. Choose a Delivery Method

• WorldRemit offers various delivery methods. The most common options for Kenya are:
  • Bank Deposit: Funds are directly deposited into the recipient’s Kenyan bank account.
  • Cash Pickup: The recipient can collect the funds from a designated agent location in Kenya.
  • Mobile Wallet: Funds are sent directly to the recipient’s mobile wallet, such as M-Pesa or Airtel Money.

4. Enter Recipient Details

• Provide the recipient’s full name, phone number, and bank account details or mobile wallet number.

5. Select the Amount

• Enter the amount you want to send.

6. Choose Your Payment Method

• Select how you want to pay for the transfer. WorldRemit offers various options like credit card, debit card, bank transfer, or Apple Pay.

7. Review and Confirm

• Review the transaction details carefully.
• Ensure that all information is correct.
• Confirm the transfer.

8. Track Your Transfer

• Once you confirm the transfer, you can track its progress using WorldRemit’s tracking feature.

 

Additional Tips for Sending Money to Kenya

• Compare fees and exchange rates: Before sending money, compare the fees and exchange rates offered by different providers to find the best deal.
• Consider the recipient’s preferences: Ask the recipient about their preferred method of receiving money.
• Be aware of potential scams: Be cautious of scams and only use reputable money transfer services.
• Check for promotions and discounts: Some providers offer promotions and discounts from time to time.