How to Send Money to Tanzania from Kenya – Complete Guide 2026
If you are in Kenya and want to support family, friends, or business partners in Tanzania, you’ll be glad to know that sending money across the border is now faster and easier than ever. This guide explains how to send money to Tanzania from Kenya using mobile money, bank transfers, and online remittance platforms.
1. Overview – Sending Money from Kenya to Tanzania
Kenya and Tanzania share strong trade and financial links, and several services make cross-border payments seamless. The most popular and reliable methods include M-Pesa Global, Airtel Money, bank transfers, and international platforms like WorldRemit or Remitly.
- Transfers are available instantly via mobile wallets.
- Exchange rates are automatically calculated during the transaction.
- Receivers in Tanzania can access funds in Tanzanian Shillings (TZS).
2. How to Send Money to Tanzania via M-Pesa Global
The easiest way to send money from Kenya to Tanzania is through M-Pesa Global. Safaricom and Vodacom have integrated their systems to allow instant cross-border transfers between Kenya and Tanzania.
Steps to Send Money via M-Pesa Global:
- Open your M-Pesa app or dial *334# on your Safaricom line.
- Select “Send Money.”
- Choose “International Money Transfer.”
- Select “Tanzania.”
- Enter the recipient’s Vodacom number (starting with +255).
- Enter the amount in Kenyan Shillings (KES) and confirm.
The recipient will receive the equivalent amount in Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) directly in their Vodacom M-Pesa wallet. They will also receive an SMS notification once the funds arrive.
Transaction Limits:
- Minimum transfer: KES 100
- Maximum transfer: KES 70,000 per transaction
- Daily limit: KES 300,000
The exchange rate and transaction fees are displayed before confirmation, ensuring transparency.
3. How to Send Money to Tanzania via Airtel Money
Another convenient way to send money is through Airtel Money Cross-Border Transfer. Airtel Kenya allows you to send funds directly to Airtel Money users in Tanzania.
Steps:
- Dial *334# or open your Airtel Money app.
- Select “Send Money.”
- Choose “Send to Other Country.”
- Select “Tanzania.”
- Enter the recipient’s Airtel Tanzania number (+255...).
- Enter the amount and confirm.
The transfer is completed instantly, and the recipient can withdraw cash from any Airtel Money agent in Tanzania. This option is great for quick personal transfers or small business payments.
4. How to Send Money via Bank Transfer
If you prefer traditional banking, several Kenyan banks offer international transfers to Tanzanian accounts. Common banks that support Kenya–Tanzania transactions include Equity Bank, KCB, NCBA, and Cooperative Bank.
Steps:
- Visit your bank branch or log in to your mobile/online banking platform.
- Select “International Transfer.”
- Enter the recipient’s Tanzanian bank details (name, account number, bank name, and SWIFT code).
- Input the amount and currency (usually TZS or USD).
- Confirm and send.
Bank transfers typically take 1–3 working days, depending on the banks involved. They are ideal for business transactions, salaries, or large payments.
5. How to Send Money Online (WorldRemit, Remitly, Wise)
For Kenyans living abroad or preferring digital convenience, platforms like WorldRemit, Remitly, and Wise (formerly TransferWise) offer easy cross-border money transfers to Tanzania.
Steps:
- Sign up at WorldRemit, Remitly, or Wise.
- Choose Tanzania as the recipient country.
- Enter the recipient’s details — either a mobile wallet or bank account.
- Select your payment method (bank, card, or M-Pesa).
- Confirm and send — transfers usually complete within minutes to a few hours.
These services offer competitive exchange rates and lower transaction fees compared to banks.
6. Sending Money via Western Union or MoneyGram
If your recipient prefers cash, Western Union and MoneyGram have extensive networks in both Kenya and Tanzania. You can send funds online, through their mobile apps, or at agent locations.
Steps:
- Visit a Western Union or MoneyGram branch in Kenya.
- Provide the recipient’s full name (as per ID).
- Pay the amount in KES plus transaction fees.
- Receive the MTCN/reference number and share it with the recipient.
- The recipient collects cash at any local agent in Tanzania using their ID.
Transfers through these services are usually completed within minutes.
7. Exchange Rates and Fees
The cost of sending money from Kenya to Tanzania depends on the method:
- M-Pesa Global: KES 50–500 depending on amount
- Airtel Money: KES 40–350
- Banks: Around KES 500–1,500 per transfer
- WorldRemit/Remitly: 1–3% of the total sent
Always confirm the exchange rate before confirming your transfer — rates can vary daily.
8. Receiving Money in Tanzania
Recipients in Tanzania can receive funds via:
- Mobile Money: M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Tigo Pesa, HaloPesa
- Bank Account: CRDB, NMB, Stanbic, or Exim Bank
- Cash Pickup: Western Union, MoneyGram
Funds sent through mobile money are available instantly, while bank transfers may take up to three working days.
9. Tips for Sending Money Safely
- Double-check the recipient’s phone number or account details before sending.
- Use official apps or registered agents only.
- Avoid sharing your PIN or transaction reference numbers with anyone.
- Compare rates to get the best value for your transfer.
10. Summary – Sending Money from Kenya to Tanzania
In summary, sending money from Kenya to Tanzania has become fast and affordable thanks to digital and mobile innovations. The best methods include:
- M-Pesa Global – Best for instant wallet-to-wallet transfers.
- Airtel Money – Great for cross-border Airtel users.
- Banks – Reliable for large or business payments.
- WorldRemit/Remitly – Convenient for online users.
- Western Union/MoneyGram – Ideal for cash pickups.
Whether for personal support, trade, or family remittances, Tanzania’s mobile and banking systems make it easy to send and receive money securely. Always use verified channels and check rates before confirming your transaction.
For more Tanzania guides on travel, banking, and payments, visit www.jaynevytours.com.