Technology & Gadgets

How to Buy Telkom Airtime from M-Pesa: A Step-by-Step Guide for Kenyan Users

woman checking her phone

In Kenya, M-Pesa is a widely used mobile money platform that makes transactions easy and convenient. Whether you’re topping up your phone or paying bills, M-Pesa is the go-to service. If you’re a Telkom subscriber, you can also buy Telkom airtime directly from your M-Pesa account. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of buying Telkom airtime from M-Pesa, providing easy-to-follow steps and helpful tips.

Why Buy Telkom Airtime Through M-Pesa?

M-Pesa provides a simple, secure, and fast way to purchase airtime, eliminating the need to visit a physical shop or search for a local airtime vendor. With millions of Kenyans using M-Pesa daily, it makes sense to buy airtime via this mobile money service. Here are a few reasons why M-Pesa is a great option:

  • Convenience: You can buy airtime from the comfort of your home, office, or on the go.
  • Speed: Transactions are fast, with airtime being credited to your account almost instantly.
  • Security: M-Pesa offers secure transactions with encryption to protect your money.

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process.

Step 1: Access Your M-Pesa Menu

The first step in buying Telkom airtime from M-Pesa is to open the M-Pesa menu. Here’s how:

  • Go to your phone’s home screen.
  • Locate and tap the green M-Pesa icon.
  • If prompted, enter your M-Pesa PIN to access the menu.

Once you’re in the M-Pesa menu, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 2: Select “Lipa na M-Pesa”

After accessing the M-Pesa menu, you’ll be greeted with a list of options. Select “Lipa na M-Pesa” to proceed with your transaction.

  • Scroll down the options until you find “Lipa na M-Pesa.”
  • Tap on it to proceed.

This section of the menu is used for various transactions, including paying bills and purchasing airtime.

Step 3: Choose “Pay Bill”

Once you’ve selected “Lipa na M-Pesa,” you’ll see several options. Since airtime is considered a “bill payment,” you need to choose “Pay Bill”.

  • Look for the “Pay Bill” option and select it.

This will open a new screen where you’ll need to enter the business number.

Step 4: Enter the Telkom Business Number

For this step, you’ll need to enter the Telkom business number. It’s a simple number to remember:

  • The business number for Telkom airtime purchases is 220220.

When prompted to enter the business number, carefully type 220220.

Step 5: Enter Your Telkom Account Number

This is a critical step because your Telkom account number is unique to you. It’s essential to enter it correctly to ensure the airtime is credited to your account.

  • The format for the Telkom account number is TELKXXXXXX, where “XXXXXX” is your Telkom phone number.

For example, if your Telkom phone number is 0771234567, your account number will be TELK0771234567.

Ensure that you enter the number correctly, as an incorrect number may result in the airtime being credited to the wrong account.

Step 6: Enter the Amount of Airtime

At this point, you need to specify how much airtime you want to buy. The amounts range from Ksh 10 upwards, so choose the amount that fits your needs. Make sure you have enough funds in your M-Pesa balance to cover the purchase.

  • Enter the desired airtime amount. For instance, Ksh 50, Ksh 100, or more, depending on your need.

Tip: It’s always a good idea to buy a little extra airtime for unforeseen calls or internet usage.

Step 7: Confirm and Complete the Transaction

Before finalizing your purchase, take a moment to review the details of the transaction:

  • Verify the business number (220220), your Telkom account number, and the airtime amount.
  • If everything looks correct, confirm the transaction by entering your M-Pesa PIN.
  • Finally, tap “Send” or “OK” to complete the purchase.

Once you complete the transaction, you should receive a confirmation message from M-Pesa, and the airtime will be credited to your Telkom account.

Tips and Precautions When Buying Airtime

While purchasing airtime via M-Pesa is simple, here are some tips and precautions to ensure everything goes smoothly:

  1. Double-check the Business Number: Ensure the business number is 220220. A typo can lead to an incorrect transaction.
  2. Verify Your Telkom Number: Always confirm that your Telkom number is entered correctly to avoid sending airtime to someone else.
  3. Review the Airtime Amount: Check the amount before confirming. It’s easy to accidentally enter a larger or smaller amount.
  4. Guard Your PIN: Keep your M-Pesa PIN safe and do not share it with anyone.
  5. Save the Transaction Receipt: After completing the transaction, you’ll receive a confirmation message. Keep it for your records in case there’s an issue.

Alternatives to M-Pesa for Buying Telkom Airtime

While M-Pesa is the most widely used method for buying Telkom airtime, there are other options available, such as using T-Kash, which is Telkom’s own mobile money service. However, T-Kash is only available to Telkom users, and the transaction process is slightly different.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What happens if I enter the wrong Telkom account number?
If you realize the mistake before confirming, simply cancel and re-enter the correct number. If you’ve already completed the transaction, contact Safaricom customer care immediately for assistance.

Q2: Can I buy airtime for someone else?
Yes, you can buy Telkom airtime for someone else by entering their Telkom number in the required field.

Q3: Are there any fees for purchasing airtime through M-Pesa?
Generally, there are no additional charges for purchasing airtime via M-Pesa. However, M-Pesa’s regular transaction fees might apply depending on your transaction type.

Q4: Is there a limit to the airtime I can buy through M-Pesa?
The minimum amount for airtime purchase is Ksh 10. However, the maximum depends on your daily M-Pesa transaction limit.

Q5: What if the transaction fails?
If the transaction fails but the money has been deducted from your M-Pesa account, contact Safaricom customer care for assistance.

Purchasing Telkom airtime from M-Pesa is quick, easy, and secure. Whether you’re topping up your own phone or buying airtime for someone else, the process is straightforward, and the convenience of mobile money ensures you never run out of credit when you need it the most. Follow the seven simple steps outlined above, and you’ll be able to recharge your Telkom phone in no time.

Remember, double-check your details, keep your PIN safe, and review the transaction before confirming. Happy recharging!

Ready to buy airtime from M-Pesa? Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying seamless Telkom airtime top-ups instantly!