Western Union vs MoneyGram Kenya: Traditional Services Compared
Western Union and MoneyGram are the two giants of traditional money transfer. Here's how they compare for Kenya.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Western Union | MoneyGram |
| Agent Locations | 500,000+ | 350,000+ |
| Kenya Agents | More | Fewer |
| Fees ($500) | $12-25 | $10-20 |
| Exchange Rate | 4% markup | 3.5% markup |
| Speed | Minutes | Minutes |
| M-Pesa | ā | ā |
Cost Comparison: $500 Transfer
| Provider | Fee | Rate | Recipient Gets |
| MoneyGram | $10 | 124.50 | KES 61,000 |
| Western Union | $12 | 123.70 | KES 60,326 |
| Wise | $2.75 | 128.85 | KES 64,092 |
Note: Both lose to digital alternatives by 5-8%.
When to Use Western Union
Largest Network
- More agents worldwide
- More Kenya locations
- Rural area coverage
Brand Trust
- 170+ year history
- Well-known globally
- Reliable service
Cash Pickup
- Pay cash, receive cash
- No bank needed
- Minutes delivery
When to Use MoneyGram
Slightly Cheaper
- Lower fees than WU
- Slightly better rates
- Walmart partnership (US)
Digital Improving
- Better app than before
- Online sending easier
Alternative Locations
- Different agent network
- Backup if WU busy
The Real Comparison
Both Western Union and MoneyGram are expensive compared to modern alternatives:
| Provider | $500 Total Cost |
| Wise | ~$3 |
| Sendwave | ~$10 (rate) |
| Western Union | ~$35 (fee + rate) |
| MoneyGram | ~$30 (fee + rate) |
When Cash Pickup Makes Sense
- Recipient has no M-Pesa
- Recipient in remote area
- Immediate cash needed
- Large amount (bank limits)
Our Recommendation
If you must use traditional services: MoneyGram is slightly cheaper.
Better alternatives exist:
- Wise: Best rates
- Sendwave: Free + instant
- Remitly: Fast + reliable
Last updated: January 2025