Kenyans React After M-Pesa Experienced Delays: "Wameamua Tubishane Na Makanga"

• Delayed transactions and disruptions in M-Pesa services on Tuesday prompted an influx of comments and reactions on social media
• Numerous individuals emphasized the inconvenience, particularly given the essential role M-Pesa plays in daily financial transactions countrywide
• The incident sparked conversations regarding the dependability of digital financial services and underscored the necessity of carrying cash

On Tuesday, January 9, social media platforms echoed with frustration and concern as Kenyans collectively responded to unforeseen delays encountered in M-Pesa, the mobile money service provided by Safaricom.

Reports of delayed transactions and disruptions in M-Pesa services triggered a wave of comments, with users expressing their dissatisfaction and seeking clarification on the issue.

Many highlighted the inconvenience caused, especially considering M-Pesa's integral role in daily financial transactions across the country.

The incident prompted discussions on the reliability of digital financial services and the need for a robust infrastructure to ensure seamless transactions.

How Kenyans reacted to M-Pesa delays

TUKO.co.ke sampled some comments:

Eric Musau wrote:

"Safaricom and M-Pesa have decided that we will argue with matatu touts."

Kizza Blair observed:

"What’s going on with M-Pesa? I’m stuck with a boda boda operator."

Bravin suggested:

"M-Pesa Going down is a reminder that you should walk with some cash in your pockets."

Mbiti Mwondi lamented:

"More than ever we need a competent and robust competitor to Safaricom’s M-Pesa. I have suffered a lot over the last hour trying to make timely payments."

Shikoshe opined:

"The dependence on M-Pesa will be the end of us. Time to revert back to carrying cash."

Boniface posed:

"So M-Pesa have decided that I'll stay in the restaurant forever after being unable to pay my bill."

Paypal delay

In June 2023, Kenyans transferring money from the online payment service Paypal to M-Pesa experienced delays.

Customers took to social media raising concerns over the delay and called on the telecommunication firm Safaricom to intervene.

Subscribers of the service, especially those receiving payments, had their money stuck on the website, accusing the platform of lack of communication.