Learn how to become an Mpesa agent in Kenya and tap into a lucrative business opportunity by offering Mpesa services to customers. Find out the requirements, training, and certification needed to become an Mpesa agent and earn commissions on deposits and withdrawals.
Who is an Mpesa Agent in Kenya
A Mpesa agent is a person or business entity authorized by Safaricom, the telecommunications company that owns and operates Mpesa, to offer Mpesa services to customers. Mpesa agents play a crucial role in the Mpesa system as they provide a physical point of contact for customers to access Mpesa services.
Mpesa agents are typically small businesses, such as retail shops, supermarkets, and kiosks, located in various parts of Kenya. They offer a wide range of services to Mpesa users, including cash deposits, withdrawals, money transfers, bill payments, and airtime purchases.
In exchange for these services, Mpesa agents earn a commission on each transaction they facilitate. The commission rate varies depending on the type of transaction and the volume of transactions.
How to Become an Mpesa Agent in Kenya
To become a Mpesa agent in Kenya, you can follow these steps.
1. Research the Requirements
Check the Safaricom website for the requirements to become a Mpesa agent. The requirements may include having a physical business location, a valid business permit, and a certain amount of capital.
2. Prepare the Necessary Documents
Once you know the requirements, gather the necessary documents, such as your ID card, PIN certificate, and business permit. You may also need to provide proof of address and a passport-sized photo.
3. Apply to Become an Agent
Visit the nearest Safaricom shop and apply to become a Mpesa agent. You can also apply online through the Safaricom website. You will be required to fill in an application form and provide the necessary documents.
4. Wait for Approval
After submitting your application, you must wait for Safaricom to review and approve it. This process may take some time, and you may need to follow up with Safaricom to get an update on the status of your application.
5. Training and Certification
Once your application is approved, you will undergo training and certification to become a Mpesa agent. This training will equip you with the necessary skills to run the Mpesa system effectively.
6. Start Operating as a Mpesa Agent
After completing the training and certification, you will be ready to operate as a Mpesa agent. You can offer your customers services such as cash deposits, withdrawals, money transfers, and bill payments. You will earn a commission on every transaction you make.
What is the Commission for Mpesa Agents in Kenya?
The commission for Mpesa agents in Kenya varies depending on the type of transaction and the volume of transactions. Here is a general overview of the commissions for different Mpesa transactions:
1. Commission on Deposits
Mpesa agents in Kenya earn a maximum commission of Ksh 190 for deposits between Ksh 60,021 and Ksh 70,000. The chart below shows the different deposit commissions falling within each specific range.
| # | Deposited Amounts (Ksh) | Commission (Ksh) |
| 1 | 50-100 | 4 |
| 2 | 101-510 | 8 |
| 3 | 511-1,010 | 9 |
| 4 | 1,011-1,510 | 10 |
| 5 | 1,511-2,510 | 11 |
| 6 | 2,511-3,510 | 12 |
| 7 | 3,511-5,010 | 14 |
| 8 | 5,011-7,510 | 20 |
| 9 | 7,511-10,010 | 28 |
| 10 | 10,011-15,010 | 40 |
| 11 | 15,011-20,020 | 55 |
| 12 | 20,021-25,020 | 71 |
| 13 | 25,021-30,020 | 87 |
| 14 | 30,021-35,020 | 103 |
| 15 | 35,021-40,020 | 119 |
| 16 | 40,021-45,020 | 135 |
| 17 | 45,021-50,020 | 150 |
| 18 | 50,021-70000 | 190 |
| 19 | 70,001-150,000 | 190 |
2. Commission on Withdrawals
Mpesa agents earn the highest commission of up to Ksh 200 on withdrawals ranging between Ksh 50,000 and Ksh 150,000. Therefore, Mpesa agent businesses can be more profitable in locations with high customer traffic that frequently make deposits and withdrawals.
The table below displays the Mpesa withdrawal transaction bands and the corresponding commission earned by Mpesa agents for withdrawals falling within each range.
| # | Mpesa Withdrawals | Registered Users | Unregistered Users |
| 1 | 10-49 | N/A | N/A |
| 2 | 50-100 | 5 | N/A |
| 3 | 101-500 | 8 | 8 |
| 4 | 501-1000 | 10 | 10 |
| 5 | 1,001-1500 | 12 | 12 |
| 6 | 1,501-2500 | 15 | 15 |
| 7 | 2,501-3500 | 20 | 21 |
| 8 | 3,501-5000 | 25 | 25 |
| 9 | 5,001-7500 | 30 | 30 |
| 10 | 7,501-10000 | 35 | 36 |
| 11 | 10,001-15000 | 45 | 45 |
| 12 | 15,001-20000 | 60 | 60 |
| 13 | 20,001-25000 | 65 | 65 |
| 14 | 25,001-30000 | 70 | 70 |
| 15 | 30,001-35000 | 70 | 70 |
| 16 | 35,001-40000 | 100 | – |
| 17 | 40,001-45000 | 150 | – |
| 18 | 45,001-50000 | 180 | N/A |
| 19 | 50,001-150000 | 200 | N/A |
In Conclusion
Becoming a Mpesa agent can be a lucrative business opportunity for entrepreneurs in Kenya, especially in areas with high demand for Mpesa services. However, the process involves researching the requirements, preparing the necessary documents, and applying to become an agent. After that, you must wait for approval and undergo training and certification before operating as a Mpesa agent.
