PesaLink is set to make bank-to-bank transfers easier by allowing customers to send money using a phone number linked to a bank or SACCO account, instead of relying on lengthy account numbers.

The new option will allow customers to link their mobile phone numbers to eligible accounts and use them when receiving PesaLink transfers. This is expected to make transactions more convenient while reducing errors that can occur when customers manually enter account numbers.

PesaLink enables customers to transfer money in real time between participating banks, SACCOs and other financial institutions. The service can be accessed through channels such as mobile banking, USSD and internet banking, allowing customers to make transfers without visiting a bank branch.

Using phone numbers for bank transfers also brings the experience closer to how many Kenyans already send and receive money through mobile money services. Customers will no longer need to remember or request a recipient’s full bank account number when making eligible PesaLink transactions.

The development is expected to make digital bank transfers simpler and more accessible, while supporting greater integration across Kenya’s financial institutions. It also adds another convenient way for customers to move money electronically as the country continues to expand its digital payments ecosystem.