Safaricom is gearing up to introduce M-PESA Ratiba, a new feature that enables M-PESA registered customers to set up recurring (standing order) payments from their M-PESA account to other M-PESA customers or a Lipa na M-PESA short code.
This feature will streamline the process of making regular payments such as utility bills, rent, subscriptions, and more. With M-PESA Ratiba, users can automate these payments, eliminating the need for manual transactions each month.
What is M-PESA Ratiba?
M-PESA Ratiba is an automated payment scheduling tool that lets you set up recurring M-PESA transfers and payments in advance.
Simply set up your recurring payment details once, and Ratiba will ensure your bills, wages, donations, and other payments are made automatically on their due dates without any further action required.
Also Read: Safaricom launches Spark Accelerator Program to support emerging startups in Kenya
Where Can You Use M-PESA Ratiba?
The convenient M-PESA Ratiba service can be used for automating all kinds of recurring person-to-person or bill payments, including:
- Family upkeep/allowances
- Employee wages
- Rent/mortgage payments
- Utility bills
- Loan repayments
- Insurance premiums
- Tithes/donations
- Subscriptions
Benefits of Using M-PESA Ratiba
- Quick and easy setup for automated recurring payments
- Avoid late payment penalties and embarrassment
- Make payments on time without having to remember
- Available on all handsets (smart/feature phones)
- There are no penalties for cancelled or failed standing order transfers that may occur due to insufficient balance.
- Flexible – pause or cancel recurring orders anytime
How to Access M-PESA Ratiba
According to Safaricom, Ratiba will be accessible via two channels:
- USSD *334# Menu (automatic payments only)
- M-PESA Super App Mini-App (automatic + reminder subscriptions)
Through these channels, you can create new recurring payment profiles, confirming details like amount, payment dates, frequency, and authenticating with your M-PESA PIN. You’ll also be able to view all active recurring orders and payment histories.
Also Read: Safaricom Ethiopia poised to overtake Kenyan operations
While Safaricom has not yet announced an official launch date for M-PESA Ratiba, the new recurring payment feature is already available on the M-PESA Super App.
When you open the Ratiba Mini-App, you’re greeted with this message:
The availability of the M-PESA Ratiba mini-app for preview suggests that Safaricom is putting the final touches on this highly-anticipated new feature and gearing up for an official launch in the very near future.
With recurring automated payments being such a game-changing capability for M-PESA users, the appetite for Ratiba’s rollout is sure to be immense.
We will be monitoring closely for an announced launch date from Safaricom and updating this article as soon as those key details are released.
So be sure to bookmark this page and check back regularly to be among the first to know when you can start scheduling your recurring M-PESA payments effortlessly with the innovative Ratiba service!
