M-Pesa Go was introduced in 2022 as a financial product for teens and preteens. It targets those within the 10 to 17 years bracket offering them specific M-Pesa services independently. With M-Pesa’s popularity across Kenya, there is a need for a secure and controlled environment for users under 18 years of age. This is why this service exists.
Mobile money for teens is not something we are familiar with as in most cases, the teens are forced to rely on their parents.
This article will explain what M-Pesa Go is, how it works, some of its key features and much more.
What is M-Pesa Go?
M-Pesa Go makes it possible for teens and preteens between 10 and 17 years old to access M-Pesa services with oversight by parents or guardians. There are some limitations as not all M-Pesa services are available. Teens and preteens can access buy goods, Lipa na M-Pesa, and buy airtime but are not able to withdraw money or access digital loans or betting services.
“As M-PESA we are committed to empowering and transforming the lives of everyone, and in M-PESA Go, we are providing a revolutionary product designed for youngsters, but with oversight by parents or guardians. Leveraging the M-PESA Super App, we plan to introduce a financial literacy platform that will equip children with tools for managing money,” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO, Safaricom.
See: M-Pesa Turns 18
How Does M-PESA Go Work?
Thinking of getting started and how to use M-Pesa Go?
You can get started by visiting the self-onboarding portal at https://safaricom.com/mpesago and registering your child who is using a line that is registered to you.
You can also visit any Safaricom shop across the country buy a new Safaricom line and register your child directly. You do not need to visit the shop with your child but you will be required to present an original or copy of their Birth Certificate/Passport.
As a parent, you will be able to enable and disable the services listed below on your child’s M-Pesa Go account:
- Send money services.
- Lipa na M-PESA – Paybill and Merchant Payments.
- Buy Airtime
- Buy bundles.
- My Account services.
Safaricom M-Pesa Go accounts will not be able to:
- Make payments to any betting companies.
- Access loans and savings products such as Mshwari, KCB M-Pesa and Fuliza.
- Withdraw cash.
- Make payments to Political parties.
Benefits of M-Pesa Go for Teens
Some of the M-Pesa Go benefits include:
- Convenience for everyday transactions including online purchases.
- The ability to teach teens financial responsibility.
- Provides a safe way to manage money without access to risky services like loans or betting.
- Promotes financial literacy from a young age.
How Parents Can Monitor and Control Their Teen’s Account
M-Pesa Go provides some controls to the parents. They can dial *334# on their phones where they will have access to the following options:
- Manage services – Enable or Disable services such as send money, buy airtime, lipa na M-PESA from your child’s account.
- Manage Junior Relationships – Add / Remove any junior Accounts and view all children under your profile.
- View Junior Account Info – View M-PESA GO account balance or mini statements.
Summary
That is a quick introduction to M-Pesa Go and how parents can get started. It is a good product for both teens and parents and encourages a bit of financial independence. Feel free to share your thoughts on this and share the article with any parents who may find it useful.
