Starting August 16, the service that allows users to transfer money between PayPal and M-Pesa accounts through the PayPal Mobile Money website will be discontinued.
This means the current web-based method powered by Thunes will no longer be available for Kenyan users sending or receiving money via these platforms.
Direct transfers shift to M-Pesa App
Safaricom and PayPal announced a transition to a more integrated and streamlined process within the M-Pesa mobile app on the day of the announcement on Monday.
Users must now link their PayPal accounts directly through the M-Pesa app to continue transferring funds.
This change eliminates the need for a separate PayPal Mobile Money web portal, the services of which will stop on the outlined date.
“From August 16, all transfers will be processed exclusively through the M-PESA application’s direct link,” Safaricom stated. The new integration enables users to manage linking accounts, exchange rates, and transfer confirmations entirely within the M-Pesa super app.
Money transfers through this system typically clear in minutes to a few hours, offering a smoother experience for freelancing professionals and remote workers in Kenya.
How users can transfer money using the M-Pesa App
Users should open the M-Pesa app to withdraw funds from PayPal and find the PayPal option under either the Finance or Global Services sections.
After linking accounts, the withdrawal process is straightforward: review the exchange rate, enter withdrawal amounts, confirm the transaction, and funds arrive swiftly.
The unified app setup reduces the friction that came with having to use an external web interface.
This change comes as PayPal and Safaricom work closely to simplify international payments for Kenyan users.
Independent reports confirm the PayPal Mobile Money website (paypal-mobilemoney.com/m-pesa) will cease operations on August 16, and all transactions must be done directly via the M-Pesa app afterwards.
This development aims to improve cross-border payment users’ security, reliability, and convenience.
By making these adjustments, PayPal and Safaricom provide a more consolidated and user-friendly method for Kenya’s large freelance and online business community to access and transfer funds internationally. Users are advised to update their settings promptly to avoid interruptions after the August deadline.