Empowering SMEs with Digital Solutions
Kenyan digital commerce startup tappi has announced a strategic partnership with Safaricom’s M-PESA to provide digital solutions aimed at transforming 650,000 business users across Kenya. This collaboration is designed to enhance the online presence, credibility, and visibility of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), marking a significant milestone in tappi’s rapid growth over the past year.
Innovative Offerings Through M-PESA For Business Super App
The partnership is anchored on the M-PESA For Business Super App, as part of Safaricom’s effort to expand services for the 650,000 users registered with its business till number, along with its 50 million active monthly users across Africa. tappi, one of the first mini-apps to feature on the M-PESA For Business platform, will offer a specially designed package to help merchants boost their online engagement, attract new customers, and gather verified reviews.
Affordable Digital Tools for Merchants
For approximately $11, M-PESA merchants will gain access to a suite of tools that includes a free webpage, integration of 50 SMS/WhatsApp reviews into their websites, and 250 Bulk SMS Marketing Credits. Additionally, M-PESA Ratiba, a new automated payment solution, is embedded in tappi’s mini app, allowing merchants to automate their online payments and subscriptions effortlessly.
Strengthening the Digital Footprint of Kenyan SMEs
Kenfield Griffith, CEO and Co-Founder of tappi, emphasized the importance of the partnership in driving digital transformation for local businesses. “This collaboration represents a huge milestone for tappi and an endorsement of the value we bring to Kenya’s MSMEs. With M-PESA serving as the backbone for millions of business transactions, our tools will be pivotal in helping entrepreneurs extend their customer reach and establish a strong online presence,” Griffith noted.
Targeting Key Sectors for Growth
The partnership initially targets 300,000 M-PESA For Business users, launching with a cohort of 250 businesses across industries such as food, fashion, health, and beauty. tappi’s digital tools will complement the existing functionalities of the M-PESA For Business app, which already includes capabilities like viewing collections, generating statements, and processing payments through the M-PESA till number.
A Vision for Financial Inclusion and Business Empowerment
Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, highlighted the broader vision behind the partnership. “We are excited to onboard tappi as our first mini-app partner on the M-PESA Business app. Through this collaboration, we aim to empower merchants with innovative, affordable tools that will help grow their businesses. Our focus is on driving financial inclusion by enhancing the capacities of SMEs and contributing to Kenya’s economic growth,” Ndegwa stated.
