KPLC

2025 - 1 - 25

M-Pesa Goes on Strike: Can We Even Buy Electricity Now?

Kenya Power customer service - electricity tokens - Kenya Power - KPLC - M-Pesa - mobile payments - technology dependence

M-Pesa stumbles, leaving KPLC customers in the dark. Is electricity the next victim of app failure? Find out what’s happening!

In a comical twist reminiscent of a power outage in the middle of a dinner party, Kenya Power has announced a significant disruption in token purchases due to widespread issues with M-Pesa. As prepaid customers grapple with the inconvenience, a casual glance at social media reveals grumbling users unamused by their inability to buy electricity. It seems that the payment giant has decided to throw a tantrum, leaving many in pitch darkness while waiting for their power message.

KPLC has officially addressed the situation, confirming what every frustrated customer already knew: they are experiencing delays in relaying token messages. The impact of this hiccup has spread far and wide, with customers unable to top up their electricity accounts and keep the lights buzzing. In the age of technology, it’s startling to see how quickly things can go south, reminding us all of the dependency we have on systems that, just like a couple of rogue goats, can wander off at the most inconvenient times.

But it’s not just about missing that Netflix binge; the unexpected disruption raises important questions. What does this say about the reliability of digital payment systems in Kenya? With M-Pesa being the go-to method for countless transactions, the outages reflect the reality that even the most trusted technology can have an off day. Perhaps it’s a reminder to all of us to keep a few candles handy just in case M-Pesa decides to take an unexpected nap during a power buy.

Now, while the folks at KPLC and M-Pesa work feverishly to restore order, let’s soak up a couple of facts. First, did you know that Kenya was a pioneer in mobile money? Thanks to the rise of M-Pesa in 2007, millions of Kenyans have embraced cashless transactions, making payments all the more accessible. Secondly, approximately 80% of Kenyans use M-Pesa regularly, highlighting just how vital it is to the everyday lives of citizens, particularly when it comes to essential utilities like electricity. Let’s hope M-Pesa gets back on its feet soon, or we may have to resort to alternative means – like bartering our chocolate stash for electricity!

Post cover
Image courtesy of "Techweez"

M-Pesa Kenya Power Token Purchase Disrupted (Techweez)

Major disruption to Kenya Power token purchases as M-Pesa experiences widespread issues. Customers unable to buy electricity.

Post cover
Image courtesy of "The Star, Kenya"

KPLC on token messages: We're experiencing delay (The Star, Kenya)

"We wish to inform all our prepaid customers that we are experiencing a delay in relaying token messages."

Kenya Power Confirms Delays in Relaying Token Messages, Gives ... (Tuko.co.ke)

Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) issued a statement following complaints by Kenyans regarding failure to receive token messages on January 25.

Explore the last week