How To Send Money From Uganda To Kenya: 5 Ways You Can Use

Kenya and Uganda have much in common. They share the same colonial masters and use the shilling as their currency. Sending money between both countries has been fast and easy, as several options exist. You can send money from Uganda to Kenya and vice versa, while others are one-way streets. But do you know how to send money from Uganda to Kenya?

If you send money from Uganda to Kenya for the first time, you may worry that the process is complicated and expensive. It mostly involves traditional bank transfers and modern digital platforms.

But you don't have to worry, as there are tips to consider before sending your money across the border. These factors include the exchange rates, receiving method, payment method, and transaction time.

How to send money from Uganda to Kenya

Sending money from Uganda to Kenya to your Kenyan friend or family is easy. The process has been made convenient with the development of technology. Follow the steps below:

1. Mobile money

Can you send money from Uganda to Kenya using MTN? MTN Uganda Mobile money users can send money directly to Safaricom M-Pesa mobile users instantly. In 2016, MTN partnered with Kenya's Safaricom to power cross-border regional Mobile money transfers. The recipient receives money in the native country's currency.

To send money from MTN Uganda Mobile Money network, you can use your account if you have one or use a Mobile Money agent. There is no difference in terms of charges. The steps involved when you want to transfer money from MTN Uganda to Safaricom Kenya include:

• Dial *165#
• Select Send Money (1)
• Select International Transfer (3)
• Select Safaricom M-Pesa (1)
• Enter the recipient Number in format 254XXX

Use MTN Mobile money if:

• Sending less than Ugx 5,000,000
• Already have an MTN Mobile money account
• Want an instant money transfer

2. Fintech apps: barter and chipper cash

Consider using Fintech apps, including Barter and Chipper Cash, to save money on transfer charges. Using Fintech apps requires you to download the App and register for an Account before you start transacting, which can be inconvenient for some people.

But on the brighter side, the apps reduce movements as you download them just in your comfort zone. You only need a strong net and a smartphone.

Barter App(Flutterwave's Rave)

The Barter App(Flutterwave's Rave) is targeted towards business users. It costs a flat fee of only 45 KES to send money to any M-Pesa account from your Flutterwave account. With this App, you don't have to be worried, as your money is secure, and there is no loss of money along the way.

Chipper cash

Another App is Chipper Cash which is Africa's modern mobile payments platform. Chipper Cash helps friends, families, and loved ones stay connected and securely send money across Africa with incredible ease and peace of mind. The App allows you to send money at a very minimal cost.

Though it started with zero charges, they recently added a small fee, but it's all worth it. If you want to save as much as possible on transfer fees, Chipper Cash is your best option. It's quite cheap and instantly fast. Use Fintech remittance Apps if:

• Want to save on transfer charges?
• Sending small amounts of money, usually below Ugx 4,000,000.
• Frequently send small amounts of money.

3. Use the bank (wire transfer)

Many banks in Uganda offer the service of transferring money to banks in Kenya. You'll need the recipient's bank details, account number, and SWIFT code. Usually, every time you send money, you have to pay a fee. It is more suitable when you need the money to reach quickly rather than cheaply.

Sometimes, sending money can seem daunting when unfamiliar with the process. If you're using a bank, the fees are directly deducted from your account when you transfer.

However, if you're using a service that isn't a bank, the fee could be charged to your debit or credit card. To ensure you're getting the best price, check if the fees differ for sending money in person compared to online. Ask your bank for all these details before using them. You want to use banks if:

• Transferring large amounts of money.
• You already have a bank account, and your bank has good e-banking systems.
• The recipient also has a bank account.

4. Money transfer services

Western Union and MoneyGram offer money transfer services to every country. They have partnered with Safaricom to allow M-PESA registered customers to receive money from senders in different countries.

With M-PESA, you can receive payments, access finance, and complete other transactions, even if the sender doesn't have a bank account. They need to have money transfer companies within them.

These services are fast, usually transferring the money within minutes. What steps do you follow when you send money from Uganda to Kenya using M-PESA through MoneyGram/Western Union? They include;

• Find a MoneyGram agent location in Uganda near you.
• Provide the necessary details, including your recipient's name and M-PESA phone number.
• Complete your transaction by giving the agent the form with the transaction fees.

Notify your recipient that the money has been sent. To be safe, have your receipt and share the eight-digit reference number with your recipient, who will use it to withdraw the money. The recipient in Kenya can then withdraw the funds from any M-PESA agent.

5. Online money transfer services

How do you send money from Airtel Uganda to Safaricom Kenya using WorldRemit or TransferWise? WorldRemit and TransferWise are money transfer services that allow you to send money from Airtel Money accounts to Safaricom Kenya using a computer or smartphone.

These online transfers are fast and secure; your recipient can usually access funds within 2-4 hours. To send money to Safaricom Kenya using Airtel Money, follow these steps:

• Create a WorldRemit account if you don't have one already.
• Choose the 'Mobile Money' service in the App or website.
• Select 'Kenya' as the country you want to send to.
• Enter the amount you want to send. The App will show you the fees and exchange rate.
• Add the recipient's details, including their Safaricom mobile number.
• Pay for the transfer. You can usually pay by debit card, credit card, or bank transfer.
• The money will be sent to the recipient's M-Pesa account in Kenya.
• There You Go; That's How to Send Money From Uganda to Kenya

Final word

Do you know how to send money from Uganda to Kenya? The options vary from traditional bank transfers to modern solutions like mobile money services and online platforms. It's all about choosing the best method for your needs regarding cost, speed, and convenience.

DISCLAIMER: This article is not sponsored by any third party. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions of any kind. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility!

Tuko.co.ke shared an article about how to send money from M-Pesa to Equity Bank account. Mobile money allows users to send and receive money using their mobile wallets. You can transfer money at any time from M-Pesa to your Equity Bank account by utilizing the number.

Equity and Safaricom partnership has made it simple for Kenyans to transfer money from M-Pesa to Equity. This type of mobile banking also enables users to safely deposit cash instead of physically carrying large amounts of cash to the bank.