Top 10 Best Mobile Money & Payment Apps in Tanzania 2025: Fees, Features, Reviews & Comparisons

In 2025, Tanzania’s mobile money ecosystem is flourishing, offering unmatched convenience for digital transactions like sending money, paying bills, and purchasing airtime. With 83% of Tanzanians using mobile money services by late 2023, these platforms are integral to daily financial activities. This guide ranks the top 10 mobile money apps in Tanzania for 2025, analyzing fees, features, and user experiences to help you choose the best option for your needs. Whether you’re searching for “M-Pesa Tanzania fees,” “Airtel Money reviews,” or the “best mobile payment apps Tanzania 2025,” this article has you covered. Just like in neighboring countries, digital wallets are transforming payments in East Africa you can check out our guide on the best mobile money apps in Uganda 2025

1.       Why Mobile Money is Essential in Tanzania

Mobile money has transformed Tanzania’s financial landscape, enabling seamless transactions for millions. By late 2023, mobile money penetration reached 83%, with services like bill payments, peer-to-peer transfers, and merchant transactions becoming commonplace. In July 2025, the Bank of Tanzania (BoT) introduced transaction fee caps to enhance affordability, though costs remain a key consideration for users. Choosing the right app is critical for balancing convenience, cost, and accessibility in Tanzania’s digital economy.

2.       How to Choose the Best Mobile Money App

When selecting a mobile money app in Tanzania, consider these factors:

• Fees & Tariffs: Evaluate costs for sending money, withdrawing cash, and transferring to other networks or bank accounts.
• Agent Network & Coverage: Ensure the app has a robust network of agents for deposits and withdrawals.
• Cross-Network & Bank Integration: Check for seamless transfers across networks and links to bank accounts.
• Ease of Use: Assess the app’s interface or USSD functionality, especially for feature phone users.
• Security & Compliance: Look for KYC compliance and fraud protection measures.
• Additional Features: Explore value-added services like savings, loans, QR code payments, or merchant tools.

With these criteria in mind, let’s dive into the top 10 mobile money apps for Tanzania in 2025.

3.       Top 10 Mobile Money & Payment Apps in Tanzania (2025)

Below is a detailed review of the best mobile money and payment apps in Tanzania for 2025, based on market share, features, and user feedback.

3.1. M-Pesa (Vodacom Tanzania)

Overview: M-Pesa, a pioneer in Tanzania’s mobile money sector, commands a 37-39% market share in 2024/2025. It’s known for reliability and widespread adoption.
Fees: Sending 10,000 TSh costs ~597 TSh to other networks; withdrawing 10,000 TSh incurs ~1,552 TSh. Cross-network transfers are pricier.
Features: Extensive agent network, USSD and app access, bill payments, and merchant transactions.
Pros: Trusted brand, vast agent coverage, and merchant acceptance.
Cons: Higher fees compared to newer competitors, especially for cross-network transfers.
Verdict: Ideal for users prioritizing reliability and accessibility over cost.  Since M-Pesa started in Kenya, it remains a leader there too you can see our full M-Pesa Kenya review and comparison of top payment apps 2025

2. Mixx by Yas (Formerly Tigo Pesa)

Overview: With a 30-32% market share, Mixx by Yas is a strong contender, rebranded to offer a modern “super app” experience.
Fees: Fees align with market averages, similar to M-Pesa, though detailed tariffs are less public.
Features: Multi-recipient transfers, business payment portal, and QR code support.
Pros: Competitive features and growing adoption.
Cons: Slightly smaller agent network than M-Pesa, especially in rural areas.
Verdict: A solid alternative for users seeking modern features and decent coverage.3.

4.       Airtel Money (Airtel Tanzania)

Overview: Holding 20-30% of the market, Airtel Money is popular for affordable small transactions.
Fees: Sending 100-999 TSh costs 20 TSh; larger transfers (up to 500,000 TSh) cost ~6,000 TSh. Withdrawal fees vary.
Features: Seamless integration with Airtel services, USSD, and app-based transactions.
Pros: Competitive fees for small amounts, strong for Airtel users.
Cons: Smaller agent network than M-Pesa; withdrawal fees need verification.
Verdict: Great for frequent small transactions, especially for Airtel subscribers.

3.4. HaloPesa (Halotel)

Overview: HaloPesa, with a 7-9% market share, is an emerging player with a focus on affordability.
Fees: Lower fees are a key strategy, though specific tariffs are less documented.
Features: User-friendly app, peer-to-peer transfers, bill payments, and QR codes.
Pros: Affordable and tech-friendly with promotional offers.
Cons: Limited agent network compared to larger players.
Verdict: A cost-effective option for tech-savvy users in areas with Halotel coverage.

3.5. Selcom Pesa

Overview: Launched in 2025, Selcom Pesa emphasizes transparent, low-cost pricing.
Fees: Uniform fees range from 10 TSh to 2,550 TSh for most transactions, significantly lower than competitors.
Features: Simplified tariffs, linked debit cards, and QR payment support.
Pros: Low fees, ideal for micro-transactions and small businesses.
Cons: Newer network with potentially limited agent coverage.
Verdict: Perfect for cost-conscious users and merchants, but verify agent availability.

3.6. AzamPesa

Overview: AzamPesa is a smaller but growing independent provider with competitive pricing.
Fees: Sending within the network costs ~54 TSh; cross-network transfers cost ~788 TSh. Cash-outs are ~68.85 TSh, bank transfers ~340 TSh.
Features: Low-cost transfers within the network, basic mobile money services.
Pros: Affordable for same-network transactions.
Cons: Limited agent and merchant network.
Verdict: Best for users transacting within AzamPesa’s ecosystem.

3.7. PixPesa

Overview: A fintech app offering zero-fee transactions under 3 million TSh daily.
Features: Bank and wallet integration, invoice management, and QR payments.
Pros: Cost-saving for businesses and high-volume users.
Cons: Limited agent network for cash-outs.
Verdict: Ideal for business owners and urban users with bank integration needs.

3.8. TanzPay

Overview: An all-in-one payment platform linking bank accounts, mobile wallets, and cards.
Features: Bill payments, QR code transactions, and direct bank-to-wallet transfers.
Pros: Versatile for banked users and merchants.
Cons: Less suitable for rural users or those without bank accounts.
Verdict: Excellent for urban users seeking integrated financial solutions.

3.9. T-Pesa (TTCL)

Overview: A smaller player with a 2-3% market share, offering basic mobile money services.
Fees: Competitive but less documented; varies by transaction type.
Features: Peer-to-peer transfers, bill payments, and basic wallet functions.
Pros: Less network congestion, potential niche incentives.
Cons: Limited agent network and visibility.
Verdict: Suitable for users within T-Pesa’s network or seeking alternatives.

3.10. Bank-Linked & Niche Fintech Apps

Overview: Emerging bank-linked wallets and niche fintech apps cater to specific needs, like international transfers or merchant payments.
Features: Bank-to-wallet integration, international transfer support.
Pros: Tailored for specific use cases like cross-border payments.
Cons: Limited agent networks compared to telecom-based wallets.
Verdict: Worth exploring for users with unique needs or bank affiliations.

4. Quick Comparison of Fees & Features

Fees are indicative; always verify the latest tariff sheets.

Key Insight: For frequent or large transactions, fees significantly impact costs. For small or same-network transfers, apps like Selcom Pesa and AzamPesa offer savings.

5. Choosing the Right App for You

• Same-Network Transactions: AzamPesa or Selcom Pesa for low fees.
• Wide Coverage & Reliability: M-Pesa or Mixx by Yas for extensive agent networks.
• Banked Users or Merchants: TanzPay or PixPesa for integrated payments.
• Small, Frequent Transactions: Airtel Money for affordable tariffs.
• Business Owners: PixPesa or TanzPay for QR payments and invoice tools.

6. Trends Shaping Mobile Money in Tanzania (2025)

• Fee Caps: BoT’s July 2025 fee cap promotes affordability.
• Fintech Innovation: Low-fee players like Selcom Pesa are gaining traction.
• Bank-Wallet Integration: Growing links between mobile wallets and bank accounts.
• App Adoption: Urban users are shifting from USSD to app-based wallets.
• New Features: Savings, loans, and merchant payment tools are becoming standard.

7. Potential Challenges to Watch

• Agent Availability: Smaller networks may lack agents in rural areas.
• Cross-Network Fees: Transfers to other networks or banks can be costly.
• Hidden Costs: Always review tariff sheets for unexpected charges.
• Security Risks: Protect your PIN and verify agents to avoid fraud.
• Regulatory Changes: Fee caps and digital taxes may alter costs.
• Access Barriers: USSD reliance limits app-based features for feature phone users.

8. Final Thoughts

Tanzania’s mobile money market in 2025 offers diverse options tailored to different needs. Whether you prioritize low fees, extensive coverage, or advanced features, there’s an app for you. M-Pesa and Mixx by Yas lead for reliability, while Selcom Pesa and AzamPesa excel in affordability. For banked users or merchants, TanzPay and PixPesa offer innovative solutions. By understanding your transaction habits and comparing fees, you can optimize your mobile money experience in Tanzania’s dynamic digital economy.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can I use Tanzanian mobile money apps abroad?
Functionality varies by provider; contact the app’s support for details.

Q2. Are deposits free?
Often yes, but withdrawals and transfers may incur fees (e.g., M-Pesa deposits are typically free). Q3. Can I transfer across networks?
Yes, but cross-network transfers typically cost more than same-network ones.

Q4. What are transaction limits?
Limits depend on the provider and KYC level (e.g., M-Pesa allows up to 5 million TSh daily for registered users).

Q5. Are there zero-fee apps?
PixPesa offers zero fees for transactions under 3 million TSh daily; Selcom Pesa has low fees (10–2,550 TSh). Apart from high interest savings, you should also avoid the top personal finance mistakes most Africans make.

The mobile money landscape in Tanzania for 2025 is vibrant, with options catering to diverse financial needs. Whether you’re searching for “best mobile money apps Tanzania 2025,” “M-Pesa Tanzania reviews,” or “Airtel Money fees,” the key is to match the app to your usage patterns. Prioritize low fees for frequent small transactions, wide coverage for reliability, or advanced features for business needs. With the right choice, you’ll save money and streamline transactions in Tanzania’s fast-evolving fintech ecosystem. If you’d like to see how Tanzania stacks up against West Africa, explore our list of the best mobile money apps in Ghana 2025