KCB Bank has introduced a flat fee of KShs. 20 for all Pesalink transfers above KShs. 1,000 up to KShs. 999,999, while transactions below KShs. 1,000 will now be free.
The move is part of the banking industry’s “Tuma Direct na 20/-” campaign aimed at making instant bank-to-bank transfers more affordable and accessible for individuals and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Customers using KCB mobile and internet banking channels are expected to benefit from lower transaction costs and more predictable pricing when sending money through Pesalink.
Push for Financial Inclusion
KCB Bank Kenya Managing Director Annastacia Kimtai said the initiative is designed to widen access to financial services by lowering transaction costs and expanding alternative payment options.
She noted that affordable digital payment solutions are especially important for SMEs that rely on efficient and cost-effective financial services to support growth.
“By standardising Pesalink transaction fees at KShs. 20, we are eliminating price ambiguity and offering a clear, predictable cost for bank-to-bank transfers. This positions Pesalink as a practical and affordable option for individuals and businesses,” said Kimtai.
She added that the initiative aligns with KCB’s broader digital transformation agenda focused on leveraging technology and partnerships to provide customer-centric banking solutions.
Strengthening Kenya’s Digital Payments Ecosystem
Pesalink has increasingly become a key component of Kenya’s digital payments ecosystem by enabling real-time interbank transfers.
According to Integrated Payment Services Limited CEO Gituku Kirika, the “Tuma Direct na 20/-” campaign is intended to accelerate the adoption of instant bank-to-bank payments across the country.
“In collaboration with our industry partners, we are lowering costs and accelerating the adoption of instant bank-to-bank payments across the economy. KCB is taking an important step toward deepening financial inclusion,” said Kirika.
Digital Transactions Continue to Grow
The announcement comes as KCB continues to invest heavily in digital banking infrastructure to strengthen its leadership in digital payments.
The bank said its digital channels have recorded annual growth of more than 20 per cent in both transaction value and volume over recent years. Currently, 99 per cent of all transactions across KCB touchpoints are processed through digital channels.
The initiative is anchored on the KCB Group Strategy 2024–2026, dubbed “Transforming Today Together,” which seeks to use technology to remove barriers to financial access and empower customers across the region.