The COMESA Competition and Consumer Commission (CCC) has dismissed reports alleging that it fined Airtel Kenya KSh7.8 billion for misleading mobile money transaction charges.
In a statement on May 29, the Commission clarified that its current engagement with Airtel Group is limited to ongoing investigations relating to the company’s international money transfer services in Kenya, Uganda and Malawi.
“The Commission further clarifies that its current engagement concerning Airtel Group is limited to an ongoing investigation into possible violations of Articles 27 and 28 of the COMESA Competition Regulations, which was duly published on our website on 30 January 2025. This investigation relates specifically to Airtel Group’s international money transfer services in Uganda, Malawi and Kenya,” read part of the statement.
COMESA Dismisses Claims of KSh7.8 Billion Fine Against Airtel Kenya
The regulator noted that it has not reached any decision, made any findings, or imposed any financial penalties on Airtel Kenya regarding either the allegations in the viral social media post or the ongoing investigation.
It said the outcome of the investigation will be communicated once all investigative and procedural processes are complete.
The Commission urged members of the public to rely on information published through its official and verified communication channels, warning against the spread of unverified reports purporting to represent the regulator’s official actions.
The fake post alleged that COMESA had fined Airtel Kenya KSh7.8 billion after investigations purportedly found the company had engaged in unfair and misleading business practices through its Airtel Money platform.
It claimed that Airtel displayed transaction charges that differed from actual charges deducted from customers and failed to adequately disclose intermediary fees and exchange rates in some cross-border transactions.
Also Read: Airtel Money Eyes Ksh1.29 Trillion Valuation in London IPO
Why Airtel Group Is Under Investigation
In 2025, CCC launched investigations into Airtel Mobile Commerce B.V.’s international money transfer services after preliminary findings revealed possible shortcomings in the disclosure of key transaction information to consumers in Kenya, Uganda and Malawi.
According to the Commission, Airtel Mobile Money Kenya allegedly displayed transaction charges that, in some cases, differed from the actual charges reflected in final confirmation messages.
The regulator also raised concerns that details of intermediary parties involved in transactions and the exchange rates used were not always disclosed to customers.
Also Read: Kenya Airways And Zambia Airways Fined By COMESA
In Uganda, the Commission noted instances where exchange rates displayed to customers differed from the rates ultimately applied to transactions.
It also questioned whether consumers were adequately informed about intermediary parties and the customer information shared with them.
The Commission also noted that the final transaction confirmations reportedly omitted details of the amount received in the recipient’s currency.
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