M-PESA API

Published: May 28, 2021 at 6:54 AM | Last Updated: October 7, 2025 at 9:58 AM

The M-PESA API provides open interfaces over standard protocols through web services. It allows developers to connect directly to the M-PESA core system and build innovative applications that integrate seamlessly with M-PESA.

We’ve consolidated the various interfaces developers have requested to make it easier to create and scale solutions that plug into M-PESA, enabling innovation, automation, and more flexible business operations.

What You Can Do with the M-PESA API

1. Automated Payment Receipt Processing

Before G2, payment receipts were handled through Instant Payment Notification (IPN) which worked well, but only provided notifications.

With the new system, notifications are enhanced by adding an optional payment validation step for Paybill. This means merchants can now confirm whether to accept an incoming payment based on parameters like:

Account number
Amount
Sender details

This step helps reduce common issues where customers send payments to the correct Paybill but the wrong account. Previously, these errors caused delays, unprocessed services, and reversal requests. With the Validation API, merchants can verify details before accepting payments, ensuring smoother processing and fewer reversals.

2. Automated Payment Disbursements (B2C API)

Many systems that receive payments also need to send them, whether for salaries, supplier payments, or refunds.

Previously, disbursements were only possible via the Business-to-Customer (B2C) web portal, which required manual file uploads and approvals. The new B2C API automates this process, allowing developers to:

Initiate payments directly from their systems
Eliminate manual file generation and uploads
Handle large disbursements efficiently and securely
This makes bulk payments faster, easier, and less prone to errors.

3. Automated Payment Reversals

Even the most reliable systems encounter exceptions. If a merchant cannot deliver a paid-for service, a reversal process is necessary.

The G2 system supports secure, automated reversals, allowing merchants to build custom reversal workflows that fit their business operations and internal controls. This ensures flexibility and transparency in refund processes.

The Future of M-PESA Innovation

The future we once imagined — machine-to-machine payments — is here. The only limit now is the developer’s imagination.

With the M-PESA API, you can automate payment journeys end-to-end, connect your systems in real time, and build for what’s next.

Get Started

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