- Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC, a subsidiary of the renowned Kenyan telecom giant, has taken another significant step in its mission to empower Ethiopians through digital financial services.
- In a groundbreaking partnership with the Ethiopian Electric Utility (EEU), Safaricom Ethiopia has integrated its mobile money service, M-PESA, into EEU’s postpaid bill collection system.
- The collaboration aims to streamline the process for postpaid customers to settle their monthly electric bills, offering a seamless, secure, and efficient alternative to traditional payment methods.
Safaricom Ethiopia and EEU simplify postpaid electric bill payments
The introduction of M-PESA into EEU’s payment ecosystem is set to revolutionise how Ethiopian consumers manage their utility expenses. Postpaid customers now have the convenience of paying their electric bills directly from their mobile phones, eliminating the need for physical visits to payment centers. This is particularly beneficial in a country like Ethiopia, where access to digital payment platforms is still growing, and many consumers face logistical challenges in accessing payment points.
We are excited to partner with Ethiopian Electric Utility to bring the convenience of M-PESA to their postpaid customers. This agreement aligns with our mission to empower individuals and businesses through innovative financial services.
Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia
Wim Vanhelleputte, CEO of Safaricom Ethiopia, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are excited to partner with Ethiopian Electric Utility to bring the convenience of M-PESA to their postpaid customers. This agreement aligns with our mission to empower individuals and businesses through innovative financial services.” His sentiments were echoed by Shiferaw Telila, CEO of Ethiopian Electric Utility, who highlighted the importance of the collaboration in enhancing customer experience. As an added incentive to encourage the adoption of digital payments, EEU postpaid customers who use M-PESA for their electric bill payments will receive a 10% cashback on their first five transactions. This initiative underscores the commitment of both Safaricom Ethiopia and EEU to promote financial inclusion and digital transformation in the country.
About Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC
Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC officially entered the Ethiopian market in May 2021, when the Global Partnership for Ethiopia consortium, comprising Safaricom Plc, Vodafone Group, Vodacom Group, Sumitomo Corporation, and British International Investment, won a license to operate telecommunication services in the country. Since receiving its full-service Unified Telecommunications Service License in July 2021, Safaricom Ethiopia has been at the forefront of Ethiopia’s digital transformation, focusing on building strong foundations through strategic partnerships that aim to improve the lives of Ethiopian citisens.
The introduction of M-PESA in Ethiopia represents a significant milestone for Safaricom Ethiopia, given M-PESA’s success in other African markets, particularly in Kenya, where it has transformed the financial landscape by providing millions with access to mobile money services. As Ethiopia continues to embrace digital solutions, partnerships like the one between Safaricom Ethiopia and EEU are crucial in accelerating the country’s digital economy. Through initiatives like the partnership with EEU, Safaricom Ethiopia is not just offering telecommunications services but is also playing a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s broader digital transformation agenda, driving financial inclusion, and fostering economic growth.
