M-Pesa Integration Guide: How to Integrate M-Pesa API for Websites, Apps & POS
What is M-Pesa Integration?
M-Pesa integration is the process of linking your POS, mobile app, or website to Safaricom’s M-Pesa system via the Daraja API. This connection enables you to:
Receive customer payments (C2B – Customer to Business) directly into your Till or Paybill account
Send money to customers or suppliers (B2C – Business to Customer)
Transfer funds between business accounts (B2B – Business to Business)
Confirm and track transactions in real time without relying on SMS messages
Why Integrate M-Pesa into Your Business?
Businesses see clear advantages when they integrate M-Pesa API into websites, apps, or POS systems:
Seamless checkout – Customers complete payments without leaving your platform.
Instant confirmation – Real-time payment updates reduce delays.
Error reduction – Automated updates replace manual message entry.
Improved customer experience – A faster, smoother way to pay.
Security – Transactions go through Safaricom’s secure servers.
Reconciliation – Easy accounting with automatic records.
Scalability – Works for SMEs, enterprises, and retail chains alike.
Types of M-Pesa API Transactions
Safaricom’s Daraja API supports several transaction models:
C2B (Customer to Business): Customers send money to your Paybill/Till, and your system is notified instantly.
B2C (Business to Customer): Businesses send money to customer wallets (e.g., refunds, payroll).
B2B (Business to Business): Transfers between business accounts for suppliers and partners.
STK Push (Lipa na M-Pesa Online): Customers approve payments via a prompt on their phone.
Transaction Status & Reversals: Verify pending payments and handle refunds automatically.
Step-by-Step: How to Integrate M-Pesa
- Acquire a Paybill or Till Number
Apply for a Paybill or Till Number from Safaricom. This is your business account for receiving payments. Register on the Safaricom Developer Portal
Visit the Daraja Developer Portal.
Create an account and generate Consumer Key & Consumer Secret.
Start with the Sandbox environment (testing mode).
Configure Your Platform
Set up secure API endpoints for payment confirmations.
Configure your Paybill/Till details.
Implement STK Push for smooth checkout.
Ensure your system can handle callback URLs for notifications.
Test in the Sandbox
Run simulated transactions.
Confirm real-time updates, receipts, and reversal handling.
Request Go-Live Credentials
Apply for production credentials.
Submit required business documents (registration certificate, KRA PIN, etc.).
Go Live
Replace test credentials with live ones.
Begin accepting real M-Pesa payments.
M-Pesa Integration Across Platforms
- Websites
- Ideal for e-commerce, service providers, and online marketplaces.
- Customers checkout with M-Pesa via STK Push or Paybill.
- Instant confirmations improve customer trust.
- Mobile Apps
- Perfect for ride-hailing, food delivery, betting, and subscription apps.
- Deep integration allows customers to pay without leaving the app.
- Works seamlessly with in-app wallets and loyalty programs.
- POS Systems
- Retail stores, supermarkets, and restaurants benefit from real-time payment updates.
- Instead of checking SMS, the cashier sees payment confirmation on the POS instantly.
- Reduces fraud and speeds up checkout lines.
Best Practices for Seamless M-Pesa Integration
Test extensively in the Sandbox before going live.
Keep API credentials and passkeys secure.
Train staff on payment flow and refund handling.
Ensure stable internet for uninterrupted callbacks.
Reconcile daily with M-Pesa statements.
Work with an experienced developer or integration partner.
Why M-Pesa Integration Matters for Your Business
M-Pesa integration for websites, mobile apps, and POS systems offers businesses a powerful edge: secure, automated, and customer-friendly payments. By following the steps from acquiring a Paybill/Till, registering on the Daraja portal, testing in the Sandbox, and going live businesses can fully unlock the potential of mobile money. In today’s digital-first world, offering M-Pesa API integration is just as important as the products and services you sell. With it, your business is ready to serve customers faster, more securely, and more efficiently.
