A Kenyan digital commerce SaaS (Software as a service) startup, tappi, has joined forces with Safaricom to empower the M-PESA network of 650,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
According to a joint statement, the collaboration will provide innovative digital solutions to enhance the online credibility and visibility of these SMEs, marking the latest phase of tappi’s rapid expansion over the past 12 months.
Launched on the M-PESA For Business Super App, the partnership aligns with M-PESA’s goal to expand its service offerings for the 650,000 users registered for its business till number and over 50 million monthly active users across several African countries.
Additionally, as one of the first mini apps on M-PESA For Business, tappi will offer a subsidized package enabling M-PESA merchants to establish an online presence, collect verified reviews, and engage with a wider customer base.
It is worth noting that, for approximately KSh1,350 ($11), merchants will receive a free webpage, 50 SMS/WhatsApp reviews (integrated into their websites), and 250 Bulk SMS Marketing Credits.
As part of the collaboration, M-PESA Ratiba, a new automated payment solution, has been added to the tappi mini app, allowing business owners to seamlessly pay their monthly subscriptions without interruptions.
“This partnership is a significant milestone for tappi and a strong endorsement of the value Safaricom and tappi aim to create for MSMEs across Kenya,” said Kenfield Griffith, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-Founder of tappi.
He added that, “With over 35 million subscribers, M-PESA has long been the backbone of transactions for millions of local entrepreneurs. As many of these businesses seek new customers, our tools will be instrumental in helping them achieve this online.”
Targeting at least 300,000 M-PESA for Business App users, the partnership has officially launched with an initial cohort of over 250 M-PESA For Business app users in various sectors throughout Kenya.
tappi’s solutions will complement the M-PESA For Business app’s existing functionalities, which include viewing collections, statements, payments, and transacting directly from the M-PESA till number.
“We are delighted to welcome tappi as our first mini-app partner on the M-PESA Business app,” said Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom’s CEO. “This partnership aims to empower our merchants with affordable and innovative tools to grow their businesses. We look forward to driving financial inclusion by building the capacities of small and medium-sized businesses, enhancing customer experience, and contributing to the Kenyan economy.”
Safaricom Celebrates 24 Years of Connecting and Transforming Kenyans’ Lives
Celebrating its 24th anniversary themed “24 Years of Transforming Lives: Celebrating Through Service,” Safaricom will be offering special M-PESA surprises, merchandise giveaways, Mama Packs, transportation delights, and other customer rewards.
The telco’s CEO thanked customers for their support and noted that over the last two decades, Safaricom has evolved from a telecommunications provider to a key player in the technological, economic, and social transformation of Kenya.
“From its humble beginnings as a mobile network operator, the company has expanded its portfolio to include revolutionary services such as M-PESA, its mobile money platform, and other digital solutions. Safaricom has also played a crucial role in enhancing network connectivity, evolving from its initial 2G services to the current 5G network. Beyond its business achievements, Safaricom has also made a significant impact on the lives of Kenyans through its sports assets and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives,” Mr Ndegwa noted.
He further stated that The Safaricom Foundation has invested billions of shillings in health, education, economic empowerment, and environmental conservation projects.
“In celebration of its 24th anniversary, Safaricom will embark on a yearlong series of activities aimed at engaging its diverse stakeholders. including customers, investors, communities, partners, employees, and the media. The company will also work closely with regulators and government bodies to advance the industry and foster stronger relationships. “