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USSD code

Buy Safaricom Airtime

Buy airtime via M-PESA, no fee, for self or another line

*544#Tap to dial on phone

Provider: Safaricom. Last verified: 2026-05-06. Category: Mobile money.

About this code

The dedicated airtime-purchase shortcut. Dial *544# to buy Safaricom airtime using your M-PESA balance, with zero M-PESA fee. Works for your own line or any other Safaricom, Airtel, or Telkom number.

What you can do

  • Buy airtime for self
  • Buy airtime for another number
  • Cross-network top-ups (Airtel, Telkom)

Verify before you rely on it

Confirm the code on the operator's official channel before using it for high-value transactions. The official source for Safaricom is the place to verify. We re-verify every quarter and flag any changes here.

Frequently asked

What does *544# do?

Buy airtime via M-PESA, no fee, for self or another line

Is *544# free to dial?

Yes. USSD shortcodes are typically free to dial in Kenya. Service-specific charges (e.g., M-PESA fees, bank transfer fees) apply only when you initiate a transaction through the menu, not for dialling itself.

Who operates *544#?

Safaricom operates this USSD service. For service issues or to verify the code, contact Safaricom directly via their official channels.

Will this code work on a feature phone?

Yes. USSD works on any GSM phone, including basic feature phones. No internet, no app, no smartphone required.

Does this work on Airtel or Telkom lines?

No. Safaricom-specific codes work only on Safaricom lines. Airtel and Telkom have their own equivalent codes.

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