If you want to share your SMS (whether text or Bundles) with another number, do you know that it is quite easy, especially if you are on the Safaricoms Network? So, do you know the process involved? All you need to do is dial *188# and follow the Process involved. Here is all you need to know.
Sending text messages through Safaricom doesn’t have to cost a fortune when you know how to gift SMS bundles to other numbers. While standard SMS rates charge Ksh 1 per message, Safaricom’s bundled options offer dramatic savings up to a 95% reduction in costs, with options like 20 SMS for just Ksh 5.
Here are several methods for buying SMS for a number other than the *188# option.
What Bundle Types Are Available?
Safaricom offers several bundle tiers to match different usage patterns. They are as follows:
| Plan Type | Bundle Option | Price (KES) | Validity | Autorenew Option |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | 20 SMS | 5 | 2 Hours | ✔ |
| 200 SMS | 10 | 2 Hours | ✔ | |
| Unlimited SMS | 20 | 2 Hours | ✔ | |
| Weekly | 1,000 SMS | 30 | 7 Days | ✔ |
| Unlimited SMS | 50 | 7 Days | ✔ | |
| Monthly | 1,500 SMS | 100 | 30 Days | ✔ |
| 3,500 SMS | 200 | 30 Days | ✔ |
Requirements
Before gifting SMS bundles to another Safaricom number, you need to ensure both you and the recipient meet basic requirements. They are as follows:
- An active Safaricom line that isn’t currently roaming
- Sufficient airtime or M-PESA balance to cover your chosen bundle
- The recipient’s correct Safaricom number
How do I buy SMS for another number on Safaricom?
Safaricom has made it easier for anyone to buy SMS for another number through several methods besides the most famous *188# method. Before you give another number, you should be aware that once purchased, bundles cannot be transferred between numbers and are non-refundable if unused. In addition, Daily bundles expire after 24 hours, while weekly and monthly bundles last for 7 and 30 days, respectively.
These SMS Bundles can only be bought via your Airtime balance or deduction from M-Pesa after providing your PIN. Now here are the methods that you can use to Gift Safaricom SMS to another number:
USSD Method
This approach works on all Safaricom phones without internet access, making it the most widely used option. Simply dial *188# from your Safaricom line and follow these steps:
- Select “Gift SMS” from the menu (usually option 8)
- Choose your preferred bundle type (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Pick the specific bundle size you want to gift
- Enter the recipient’s Safaricom number carefully
- Confirm the transaction when prompted
- Wait for the confirmation message showing a successful purchase
After completing these steps, both you and the recipient will receive SMS confirmation of the successful bundle transfer. Always double-check the recipient’s number before confirming, since transactions cannot be reversed once processed.
Safaricom App
For smartphone users, the Safaricom app offers a more visual approach to gifting SMS bundles.
- Open your Safaricom app and log in securely
- Navigate to the “Data, Calls, SMS & Airtime” section
- Select “SMS Bundles” from the available options
- Choose your desired bundle package and amount
- Select “Other Number” instead of “My Number”
- Enter the recipient’s Safaricom number accurately
- Authenticate the transaction using your MPESA PIN
- Receive instant confirmation within the app
How to Check SMS Balance and Expiry
To check SMS bundle balance, the easiest method to use is to use the same *188# for purchase. All you need to do is follow the process below:
- Dial *188# and select 98 Option.
- Select “Check SMS Balance” from the menu options
- Wait for the automated response showing remaining messages
FAQ
How to buy Safaricom credit for another number?
How to sambaza Safaricom credit in Kenya?
Dial *140*amount*mobile-number# and then press OK/Call
How to buy SMS on Airtel?
Dial *370# from your phone and select your preferred SMS bundle
