Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Kenya are set to benefit from enhanced digital payment solutions following a new partnership between Airtel Money and Absa Bank Kenya aimed at streamlining money transfers and merchant payments.
The collaboration introduces a service that enables direct transfers from Airtel Money wallets into Absa Bank Kenya accounts, as well as payments to Absa merchant paybill accounts, offering businesses faster, more convenient and reliable transaction options through mobile phones.
The move is expected to significantly improve everyday business operations such as payments to suppliers, settlement of bills, and general fund transfers, particularly for SMEs that rely heavily on mobile money transactions.
Speaking during the launch, Airtel Money Managing Director Anne Kinuthia-Otieno said the partnership underscores the company’s commitment to driving inclusive digital financial solutions across the country.
“At Airtel Money, we believe in fostering collaborative digital partnerships that help power the economy, meeting the needs of customers in rural and underserved areas where mobile money remains the most accessible financial tool,” she said.
“As customers increasingly demand payment solutions that are simple, fast, and reliable, this partnership addresses long-standing friction points in digital payments, supporting the growth of small businesses and making digital payments work better for everyday life,” the MD added.
In addition to improved transaction efficiency, the integration will also see Airtel Money customers receive up to 100 percent guaranteed cashback in the form of airtime on all paybill payments.
Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director Renato D’Souza said the initiative is designed to simplify financial processes for entrepreneurs and enhance their operational efficiency.
“As a growth partner for our customers, we get to champion the kind of innovation that fundamentally shifts how businesses operate,” he said.
“Today’s SMEs are not just looking for banking services; they’re looking for ecosystems that help them move faster, stay agile, and compete in an increasingly digital marketplace. Our partnership with Airtel is a powerful step in that direction.”
He added that the integration will give business owners greater control over their cash flows by enabling seamless transfers from Airtel Money wallets into Absa accounts, as well as simplifying payments to Absa merchant paybill numbers.
“By enabling seamless transfers and simplifying payments, we are giving entrepreneurs more control, more choice, and more efficiency in how they manage their cashflows. This is about unlocking the full potential of digital payments for SMEs across Kenya and ensuring they have the tools to grow with confidence in a rapidly evolving economy,” he said.
Customers can make merchant transactions through the Airtel Money USSD menu by dialing *334# or via the My Airtel App by selecting Airtel paybill on the Airtel Money menu and entering Absa paybill number 303030, followed by the Absa Bank account number or merchant short code.
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