How To Buy Telkom Airtime From Mpensa (2025)

Posted on Author Peter Mokoena

Buying Telkom airtime from Mpensa is as easy as the breeze; it only requires your smartphone. This is a gateway to internet access, mobile money transactions, and staying connected with loved ones.

Telkom Kenya, one of the country’s leading telecommunications providers, offers competitive data bundles and voice packages that appeal to millions of users. But while Telkom’s services are widely appreciated, one common question persists: How can you buy Telkom airtime using M-Pesa?

This article provides a comprehensive guide to purchasing Telkom airtime via M-Pesa, including multiple Paybill options, step-by-step instructions, and insider tips to make your experience smooth and hassle-free.

Understanding the Telkom–M-Pesa Relationship

Telkom Kenya and Safaricom’s M-Pesa operate independently, which means you can’t directly buy Telkom airtime from the M-Pesa menu like you would for Safaricom airtime. However, thanks to third-party integrations and Paybill services, you can still top up your Telkom line using M-Pesa with ease.

This workaround has become increasingly popular, especially among users who rely on Telkom for data and Safaricom for mobile money. Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or remote worker, knowing how to navigate this process can save you time and keep you connected.

Why Buy Telkom Airtime via M-Pesa?

Here are a few reasons why this method is so popular:

  • Convenience: No need to visit a shop or buy scratch cards.
  • Speed: Transactions are completed in seconds.
  • Accessibility: Available 24/7 from any location.
  • Flexibility: Multiple Paybill options to choose from.
  • Bonus Offers: Some platforms offer extra airtime or cashback.

Paybill Options for Buying Telkom Airtime

There are several Paybill numbers you can use to buy Telkom airtime from M-Pesa. Each one is linked to a different service provider or payment gateway. Let’s break them down:

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Paybill Number Provider Account Format Notes
777711 Telkom Kenya Telkom mobile number Official Telkom Paybill
220220 Pesapal TELK077XXXXXXX Prefix “TELK” before number
510800 Ipay Limited Telkom mobile number May offer bonus airtime
309028 Jazalink Telkom mobile number Reliable and fast
959959 Free Airtime App Telkom mobile number Reported to offer free top-ups

Step-by-Step Guide: Using Each Paybill

Let’s walk through how to use each Paybill option to buy Telkom airtime from M-Pesa.

Option 1: Telkom Kenya Paybill – 777711

This is Telkom’s official Paybill number and is the most straightforward method.

  1. Open your M-Pesa menu on your phone.
  2. Select Lipa na M-Pesa.
  3. Choose Paybill.
  4. Enter Business Number: 777711
  5. Enter Account Number: Your Telkom mobile number (e.g., 077XXXXXXX)
  6. Enter the amount of airtime you want to buy.
  7. Enter your M-Pesa PIN and press OK.
  8. You’ll receive a confirmation SMS from M-Pesa and Telkom.

This method is ideal for users who want to stick with official channels and avoid third-party platforms.

Option 2: Pesapal Paybill – 220220

Pesapal is a trusted payment gateway in East Africa. It allows you to buy Telkom airtime with a unique account format.

  1. Go to M-Pesa → Lipa na M-Pesa → Paybill
  2. Enter Business Number: 220220
  3. Enter Account Number: TELK077XXXXXXX (your Telkom number prefixed with “TELK”)
  4. Enter the amount and your M-Pesa PIN
  5. Confirm and wait for the SMS

Pesapal may also offer promotional bonuses or cashback depending on the season.

Option 3: Ipay Limited – 510800

Ipay is another reliable platform that facilitates Telkom airtime purchases.

  1. Go to M-Pesa → Paybill
  2. Enter Business Number: 510800
  3. Enter Account Number: Your Telkom number (no prefix needed)
  4. Enter amount and PIN
  5. Confirm and receive airtime
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Ipay is known for its fast processing and occasional bonus airtime offers.

Option 4: Jazalink – 309028

Jazalink is a lesser-known but effective option.

  1. Go to M-Pesa → Paybill
  2. Enter Business Number: 309028
  3. Enter Account Number: Your Telkom number
  4. Enter amount and PIN
  5. Confirm and receive airtime

This method is great for users who want a backup option in case other Paybills are down.

Option 5: Free Airtime App – 959959

Some users report that Paybill 959959 allows free airtime top-ups from M-Pesa to Telkom. While not officially confirmed, it’s worth trying if you want to avoid transaction fees.

  1. Go to M-Pesa → Paybill
  2. Enter Business Number: 959959
  3. Enter Account Number: Your Telkom number
  4. Enter amount and PIN
  5. Confirm and wait for SMS

Note: Results may vary depending on availability and promotions.

Pro Tips for Airtime Purchases

To make your airtime buying experience smoother, consider these tips:

  • Save your favorite Paybill as a contact for quick access.
  • Double-check your Telkom number before confirming the transaction.
  • Use Pesapal or Ipay if you want bonus airtime or cashback.
  • Avoid peak hours (e.g., 6–8 PM) to reduce delays.
  • Keep your confirmation SMS in case of disputes or failed transactions.
  • Try multiple Paybills if one isn’t working—networks can be temporarily down.

Comparing the Paybill Options

Here’s a quick comparison of the top Paybill methods:

Feature 777711 (Telkom) 220220 (Pesapal) 510800 (Ipay) 309028 (Jazalink) 959959 (Free Airtime)
Official Channel ✅ ❌ ❌ ❌ ❌
Bonus Airtime ❌ ✅ ✅ ❌ ✅ (unconfirmed)
Speed Fast Fast Fast Moderate Varies
Reliability High High High Medium Low (user reports)
Ease of Use Very Easy Requires prefix Easy Easy Easy
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Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Even with the best systems, things can go wrong. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:

Transaction Failed or Delayed

  • Cause: Network congestion or incorrect details.
  • Fix: Retry after a few minutes or use a different Paybill.

Airtime Not Received

  • Cause: Wrong account number or system error.
  • Fix: Contact Telkom customer care with your M-Pesa confirmation code.

Paybill Not Working

  • Cause: Temporary outage or discontinued service.
  • Fix: Switch to another Paybill option.

Final Thoughts

Buying Telkom airtime via M-Pesa is not only possible—it’s incredibly easy once you know the right Paybill numbers and account formats. Whether you prefer the official Telkom Paybill or want to explore third-party platforms like Pesapal and Ipay, you have multiple options at your fingertips.

So the next time you need to top up your Telkom line, skip the scratch cards and long queues. Just whip out your phone, open M-Pesa, and follow the steps outlined in this guide.