Registering and Paying for a .co.ke Domain with M-Pesa

• .co.ke domains are Kenya’s premier business domain extension, managed by the Kenya Network Information Centre (KENIC)
• Registration costs typically range from KES 500 to KES 1,500 annually depending on the registrar
• M-Pesa payment is widely accepted by Kenyan domain registrars, making the process quick and convenient
• You must register through KENIC-accredited registrars; direct registration with KENIC is not available
• Required information includes valid ID details, email address, phone number, and business registration documents for companies
• Domain activation usually occurs within 24 hours after successful payment verification
• Annual renewal is required to maintain ownership of your .co.ke domain
• The registration process can be completed entirely online without visiting physical offices

Understanding .co.ke Domains

The .co.ke domain extension is Kenya’s country code top-level domain (ccTLD) specifically designated for commercial entities operating in or targeting the Kenyan market. Having a .co.ke domain instantly establishes your business as locally based and builds trust with Kenyan customers. Whether you’re launching an e-commerce store, establishing a corporate website, or creating an online presence for your startup, a .co.ke domain gives you credibility and improves your visibility in local search results.

KENIC, the official registry for Kenyan domains, has streamlined the registration process over the years, and the integration of M-Pesa as a payment method has made acquiring a domain more accessible than ever for Kenyan entrepreneurs and businesses.

Choosing a KENIC-Accredited Registrar

The first step in registering your .co.ke domain is selecting a KENIC-accredited registrar. Popular options include Kenya Web Experts, Safaricom Digital, Truehost, Hostpinnacle, and Access Kenya. These registrars offer varying prices and service packages, so it’s worth comparing options. Most provide additional services such as web hosting, email hosting, and website builders alongside domain registration.

Visit the registrar’s website and use their domain search tool to check if your desired domain name is available. Domain names should be memorable, relevant to your business, and easy to spell. If your first choice is taken, the search tool will typically suggest available alternatives.

The Registration Process

Once you’ve confirmed your domain is available, begin the registration process by creating an account with your chosen registrar. You’ll need to provide accurate contact information including your full name, email address, physical address, and phone number. For businesses, you may be required to submit additional documentation such as your business registration certificate or PIN certificate.

Complete the domain registration form, carefully reviewing all details. Errors in your contact information can cause delays or complications with domain ownership verification. Most registrars allow you to register domains for one to ten years, with discounts often available for multi-year registrations.

Paying with M-Pesa

After completing the registration form, proceed to the payment section. Select M-Pesa as your payment method. The registrar will typically provide you with their M-Pesa Till Number or Paybill Number. Some registrars have integrated M-Pesa payment gateways that automatically generate a payment prompt on your phone.

If using a Paybill or Till Number, open your M-Pesa menu, select “Lipa na M-Pesa,” then choose either “Paybill” or “Buy Goods and Services” depending on the registrar’s system. Enter the provided number, input the amount due, and use your domain name or the provided reference number as the account number. Enter your M-Pesa PIN to complete the transaction.

You’ll receive an M-Pesa confirmation SMS immediately. Forward this confirmation message to the registrar if required, though many modern systems automatically detect and verify payments.

After Payment: Domain Activation

Once payment is confirmed, the registrar submits your domain registration to KENIC. Activation typically takes between a few hours to 24 hours. You’ll receive email notifications confirming successful registration and providing access to your domain management panel.

In your domain control panel, you can configure DNS settings, set up email forwarding, or point your domain to your web hosting server. Most registrars provide tutorials and customer support to help with these technical steps.

Maintaining Your Domain

Remember that domain registration is not permanent. You must renew your .co.ke domain annually or according to your chosen registration period. Set reminders before expiration to avoid losing your domain. Most registrars send renewal reminders via email and SMS, and many accept M-Pesa for renewal payments, making the process just as convenient as the initial registration.

With your .co.ke domain secured, you’re ready to build your online presence and connect with Kenya’s growing digital marketplace.