Your phone number is your identity in Kenya. It is how you pay with M-Pesa, receive eCitizen codes, and how your bank, landlord and delivery riders reach you.
The networks
- Safaricom - the largest network, the best coverage outside cities, and M-Pesa. Most people have a Safaricom line even if they also use another.
- Airtel - usually cheaper data and calls, with Airtel Money.
- Telkom - the smallest of the three.
Many people carry two SIMs: Safaricom for M-Pesa and a second network for cheaper data, and as a backup when one network is down.
Getting a SIM
Buy from an official shop, a mall kiosk or an agent, including at the airport. SIM registration is compulsory: bring your national ID, or your passport if you are a foreigner. A SIM sold without registration will be switched off.
eSIMs are available from Safaricom and Airtel for phones that support them. Set one up in a shop with your ID.
Airtime and data
- Top up with M-Pesa, bank apps, or scratch cards from any shop.
- Buy bundles through the network’s app or its USSD menu. Daily, weekly and monthly data bundles are far cheaper than paying as you go.
- Home internet is usually cheaper than mobile data for heavy use. See Utilities in Nairobi.
Keeping your number
You can move your number to another network (number portability) at the new network’s shop. Keep your line active: a SIM unused for months can be recycled, taking your M-Pesa and eCitizen access with it.
Roaming
Kenya is part of the East Africa One Network Area, which cuts roaming charges on participating networks in Uganda, Rwanda and South Sudan. Elsewhere, buy a roaming bundle before you travel, or a local SIM.
If your phone is lost or stolen
- Call your network from another phone and ask them to block the SIM. This protects your M-Pesa.
- Report it at a police station and get an abstract - see Reporting a crime and lost documents.
- Replace the SIM at a network shop with your ID. Your number, and your M-Pesa balance, come back with it.
- Change passwords for email and banking apps.
Scams
Nobody from your network will ask for your M-Pesa PIN or a code sent to your phone. See M-Pesa and mobile money.