Safaricom’s “Lipa na Data” allows customers make payments with Data bundles

Safaricom has introduced a new payment option called ‘Lipa na Data,’ enabling millions of customers to utilize their Internet data balances for making payments and reducing associated liabilities. This service, accessible to both post-pay and prepaid customers with data balances of 5GB and above, allows them to pay for goods and services at shopping outlets through Paybill or till numbers by dialing 54434#.

The initiative aligns with Safaricom’s efforts to boost the redemption of its loyalty program, Bonga Points, and unlock substantial revenue.

When users dial the payment request code, the bundle calculator provides the bill amount in Kenyan shillings based on the equivalent data bundle and presents the user with the option to either accept or reject the payment and proceed.

For example, Sh500 is equivalent to 7,692.21MBS (7.7GB), while Sh2,000 is equivalent to 30,769.23MBs (30.8GB).

“You can make a payment of Sh500 with 7,692.21MBs. Proceed to pay: 1: Yes 2: No 0: Back,” reads the prompt on making a payment attempt.

If the data balance is below the required 5GB, a user will be notified that they are not eligible for the service.

Safaricom continues to offer various payment plans through its M-Pesa e-wallet, including direct payments from deposits and the Fuliza overdraft service. Additionally, the company operates ‘Lipa na Bonga,’ enabling users to redeem loyalty points to settle bills. These initiatives are part of Safaricom’s comprehensive revenue optimization strategy, which includes expanding 5G network coverage and introducing the Fuliza overdraft service for businesses.