What Are M-PESA Mini Apps? A Simple Guide For Kenyans
M-PESA has been part of Kenyan life for over 15 years now,from sending money to paying bills.It's part of the Kenyan lifestyle and not just a mobile wallet.Traditionally Kenyans have always accessed M-PESA services using the sim toolkit (STK),a simple submenu that is accessible using a mobile phone,whether smart or not.However,with the rapid developments and improvements in technology,coupled with the surge in popularity of mobile smartphones,Safaricom has introduced a new way of accessing and using M-PESA in a modern and more convenient way.The Safarcom M-PESA Super App available for both android and iOS devices.
In 2021,the M-PESA app or as branded by Safaricom, M-PESA Super App for smartphones was introduced to the Kenyan market through their respective mobile app stores,Google Play Store and Apple's App Store.
The M-PESA app does everything that could be done traditionally using its STK variant and more,but in a modern and sleek approach for smartphones.With over 10 million downloads on the Google PlayStore alone and favorable reviews,its popularity is not accidental,it stems from its ease of use and the wide array of features it offers.One feature that stands out is the introduction of M-PESA Mini Apps,a ground breaking feature that we'll explore in this article.
What Exactly Are M-PESA Mini Apps?
Think of M-PESA Mini Apps as apps within the M-PESA app.Instead of downloading multiple different apps for shopping,booking rides or paying for services,you can now access them directly within the M-PESA app.For Kenyans,this is a game changer.
Examples Of M-PESA Mini Apps
M-PESA super app comes with an assortment of Mini-apps,with many more being added over time,some mini-apps you will find in M-PESA super app includes:
- Trave & Transport - Little App, Book A Flight
- Government Services - Hustler Fund,NSSF Mobile
- Loyalty & Marketing - Shell Club, Twiva
- Shop & Gift - Uncover Skincare, Safaricom Masoko, Global Duka
- Health & Wellness - HealthX Africa, mDaktari
- Education - Andishi Africa, BookSmart, Funtabu
This list is non-exhaustive,you can open the M-PESA app to view other M-PESA Mini Apps and Learn More
Why Did Safaricom Introduce M-PESA Mini Apps?
Safaricom's vision for M-PESA is to make it more than just a wallet.As part of this vision M-PESA's Mini Apps is a bold strategy to transform M-PESA into Kenya's financial digital command center,this is to follow in the footsteps of it's global counterparts such as WeChat(china) and Paytm(india) which have become Super Apps where users can chat,shop,pay bills,book rides and more.Safaricom sees the same potential with M-PESA.
By Introducing M-PESA Mini Apps,Safaricom:
- Keeps users inside the M-PESA ecosystem(no need to switch apps).
- Reduces data usage(mini apps are lighter than full apps)
- Supports small businesses by giving them a ready made platform and foundation
- Compete with global super apps like WeChat(china) and Paytm(india)
For Kenyans,this means convenience,affordability and access.
How Do Mini Apps Work?
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use M-PESA Mini Apps.
- Download the M-PESA Super App(Available on Google PlayStore(Android) and Apple App Store(iOS))
- Log-In to your M-PESA using your M-PESA mobile number
- Once logged.Scroll down to the M-PESA mini app you would like to use(They're categorised by functionality i.e Financial Services,Government Services etc.)
- Choose a Mini-App(e.g Hustler Fund under Government Services)
- Enter M-PESA PIN and use it directly within the app,no extra downloads needed
Benefits Of M-PESA Mini Apps For Kenyans
M-PESA Mini Apps comes with several benefits for Kenyan users,they include:
Convenience
Access multiple services in one place.You can pay for KPLC, order food and buy airtime without ever leaving the M-PESA super app.
Low Data Storage
Mini Apps are optimized to use minimal data,making the ideal for youth managing tight bundles.They load faster and does not require separate bundles.
Security
All your transactions are protected by M-PESA's trusted security infrastructure.Mini Apps are also Safer as they are thoroughly vetted by M-PESA's team before being allowed to be part of the M-PESA's super app.
Business Opportunities
Mini Apps offer SMEs and Businesses a chance to plug directly into the M-PESA ecosystem.You might not need to build a full app - just create a Mini App and reach millions.
Accessibility
Mini Apps are lightweight and work smoothly even on mid-range or older devices.This ensures more Kenyans can access digital services without needing to upgrade their devices.
Real-Life Use Cases
M-PESA Mini Apps advantages and benefits would not be apparent without exploring what its real life use cases and scenarios looks like,let's explore a few of them.
- Student Life - Pay HELB via eCitizen Mini App,buy bundles,order food - all in one app
- Side Hustlers - Use a delivery Mini App to send goods to customers and get paid via M-PESA
- Family Life - Pay school fees, electricity, and water bills without juggling through multiple apps
- Entertainment - Subscribe to Showmax or Netflix alternatives directly through M-PESA
How Mini Apps Compare To Normal Apps
| Feature | Mini Apps | Standalone Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | Very light | Can take 100MB+ |
| Updates | Automatic inside M-PESA | Requires Play Store/App Store Updates |
| Security | Protected by M-PESA login | Depends on the developer |
| Speed | Faster for basic tasks | More features but heavier |
| Best For | Quick everyday transactions | Advanced features,full experience |
Opportunities For Kenyan Businesses
Mini Apps aren't just for consumers,they are also for creators and entrepreneurs. Safaricom provides APIs to build and publish M-PESA Mini Apps.This means that Kenyan businesses owners and entrepreneurs can create or build solutions that reach millions instantly without needing to build full-fledged apps.
To learn more about developing M-PESA Mini Apps visit this site 👉 Safaricom Mini Apps Documentation Website
Challenges And Limitations
As with any other technology,Mini Apps aren't perfect and come with a number of limitations.They include:
- Limited Features - Some Mini Apps don't have all the functions of a full fledged app
- Internet Required - You still need internet access to use M-PESA Mini Apps
- Learning Curve - Some users may take time to adapt to using M-PESA Mini Apps
- Safaricom Control - Businesses must follow Safaricom's rules to be listed
The Future Of M-PESA Mini Apps In Kenya
Safaricom's continued investments,improvements and enhancements to its Mini Apps platform,coupled with increased third-party participation and inclusion, signals a strong commitment to innovation. The Mini Apps ecosystem is indeed poised for a bright future.Here is what to expect:
- Integration with global services - Expect more partnerships with Global Services such as Netflix,Amazon and Spotify
- Financial Services - Loan apps,Savings groups (chamas), and insurance could all move to M-PESA Mini Apps
- Youth Innovation - More Kenyan youth innovators will likely invest in this space and create Mini Apps tailored to local needs - like boda boda logistics,farming tools or gig platforms.
- Regional Expansion - Just like M-PESA spread to Tanzania and beyond,Mini Apps could scale across Africa.
How To Get Started Today
- Download the M-PESA Super app
- Navigate to the Services tab
- Try out at least three Mini Apps this week
- Share feedback with Safaricom or Social Media
Conclusion - Why You Should Care
M-PESA Mini Apps are more than just convenience,they are a gateway to Kenya's digital economy future.For consumers this means convenience,saving data and time.For businesses,this means unlocking business opportunities and reaching millions without building and maintaining a full app.Either way everyone wins.
To learn more about M-PESA App and Mini apps checkout this links