Did you know that M-PESA is celebrating 11 years of its existence this year? This means that 11 years ago, the idea to make mobile money transfers was created and the subsequent impact of the world’s leading mobile money service would be felt all over the globe.
Launched in March 2007, M-PESA now has over 27.8 million customers and over 148,000 M-PESA Agent outlets countrywide. For these customers, mobile money has been more than just transfer, it’s been about convenience, driving change and having the consistent control of your own money. M-Pesa will forever be held up as an example of the transformative impact mobile money services can have on a country and today, the M-PESA service has scored another feat after successfully passing the GSMA Mobile Money Certification, a global initiative that defines and promotes excellence in the provision of mobile money services.
M-PESA met the criteria in eight areas of assessment, including: safeguarding of customer funds, service security, safeguarding of customer data and privacy, and mitigation against money laundering, terrorist financing, and fraud risks.
“The awarding of the GSMA Mobile Money Certification to M-PESA is a strong testament to the heavy investment we have made in people resources and financial investments, which have been critical to building such a robust service. This certification further reassures our customers of M-PESA’s reputation as a trusted, stable and reliable solution,” said Nicholas Mulila, Director – Risk Management, Safaricom.
Other areas assessed as part of the certification process include agent and staff management, reliable service provision, customer communication, customer service and management of customer complaints.
M-PESA becomes one of the first mobile money services to achieve this level of certification, cementing its position as a global leader in mobile money transfer and payments.
“The GSMA Mobile Money Certification is a consumer-focused initiative, aimed at giving customers confidence that a provider has taken steps to ensure their funds are in safe hands, their rights are protected and they can expect a high level of customer service,” said John Giusti, Chief Regulatory Officer, GSMA. “With over 690 million accounts globally, the mobile money industry is having a clear impact on the global effort to expand financial inclusion, providing access to life-enhancing financial services and serving as a gateway to the digital economy.
