Safaricom has provided clarity on the inability of customers to access a recipient’s phone number after sending money to merchants via Pochi la Biashara. The telecommunications leader emphasizes that this restriction aligns with data privacy regulations that protect customers’ personal information.
On August 3, 2026, Safaricom responded to a query from Facebook user Aggie Adana, who sought to understand if it was possible to retrieve the phone number of someone who received money through Pochi la Biashara. In its response, Safaricom stated, “When you send money via Pochi la Biashara, you cannot obtain the recipient’s number due to data privacy laws.”
The company has not outlined any processes for customers to acquire the merchant’s number post-transaction, reiterating that data privacy rules govern this limitation.
Understanding How Pochi la Biashara Works
Pochi la Biashara is a tailored service by Safaricom, empowering small business operators to distinguish their business funds from personal M-Pesa funds, all while utilizing the same mobile number. This service caters to informal traders such as food vendors, kiosk operators, boda boda riders, and second-hand clothes dealers.
Merchants can operate without needing a separate SIM card or till number, as the service integrates seamlessly with their existing M-Pesa-registered mobile line. Customers can easily make payments using the M-Pesa Super App by selecting “Pay” and then “Pochi la Biashara.” Additionally, access is available via *334# and the Safaricom SIM Toolkit under “Lipa Na M-Pesa.”
Transaction limits mirror standard M-Pesa limits, allowing customers to send up to Ksh 250,000 in a single transaction and Ksh 500,000 within a day.
Services Available to Merchants
Business owners can manage their Pochi la Biashara accounts through the M-Pesa App or *334#. This service facilitates transfers between Pochi and personal M-Pesa accounts, payments via Buy Goods and Paybill, sending money to mobile numbers, checking balances, and accessing statements.
Merchants can also purchase airtime and earn a five percent commission, withdraw cash through M-Pesa agents, and make business payments using Lipa na Pochi. Transfers between Pochi accounts are currently accessible through USSD.
Understanding Data Privacy and Information Sharing
Safaricom’s clarification underscores the separation between transaction details and the personal contact information of recipients. Customers can view their transaction information, but the phone number linked to a Pochi la Biashara merchant remains undisclosed post-payment due to data privacy regulations.
Merchants can access Biashara Smart subsidized data bundles using funds in their Pochi accounts or choose to opt out of the service. If they decide to opt out, any remaining Pochi balance will transfer to their personal M-Pesa account.
For further insights, both customers and merchants can explore the “Know more about Pochi” menu available under *334#, which includes frequently asked questions about the service.
This clarification reinforces Pochi la Biashara’s commitment to supporting small businesses in managing their business receipts separately from personal M-Pesa funds, all without the need for an additional mobile line.
