From The Rio Times · Amina Diarra · · 1m 30s
Safaricom Refunds Old M-Pesa Cash
Safaricom sends forgotten M-Pesa balances to current numbers after six months of inactivity.
In brief
Safaricom sends forgotten M-Pesa balances to current numbers after six months of inactivity. Safaricom automatically transfers M-Pesa balances from inactive lines to current numbers using ID or passport matches. Originally reported by The Rio Times.
Safaricom Refunds Old M-Pesa Cash
Safaricom has sent money left on old, recycled M-Pesa lines to owners' current numbers since Thursday 23 July 2026.
How Refunds Work
The system matches the ID or passport behind an old line to an active line and moves the balance there without any form needed.
Small Refund Amounts
One customer received ksh25 (about us$0.19) while some others got thousands of shillings according to kenyan outlets.
Who Owns Safaricom
Vodacom, the south african group, holds 55% of safaricom while an appeal continues.
What Happens to Unclaimed Money
After two years unclaimed, archived funds pass to the unclaimed financial assets authority in kenya.
Refund Process for Customers
Customers can ask safaricom customer support for a manual balance check using their original national id number.
Why Refunds Occur
Safaricom switches off a sim card after more than six months without airtime and refunds the balance automatically.
What It Means for US Readers
US travelers and expats may find small balances returning to new lines under the same passport.
Safaricom's Refund Timeline
Refunds began on thursday 23 july 2026 and continue automatically for customers with active lines.
What Customers Need to Know
Safaricom has not published total archived balances or how many customers have been paid.
At a glance
Safaricom automatically transfers M-Pesa balances from inactive lines to current numbers using ID or passport matches.
