Airtel customers can now walk into Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) outlets and deposit or withdraw cash from Airtel Money following the announcement of a partnership between the two companies.

A statement issued today Airtel Money and KCB expressed the hope that move would enhance service provision to customers who are transacting through their mobile phones.

KCB's director of retail Anastacia Kimtai said the new partnership is part of the Bank's strategy to "deepen the provision of innovative products and solutions that meet the dynamic demands of customers in the changing world of technology."

"As the mobile money market becomes more dynamic and competitive, KCB will continue to stay relevant, anticipate shifts in the market structure, and leverage goodwill in the industry to tackle adversities and grow its customer base," said Kimtai.

KCB and Airtel also characterised their collaboration as a game-changer, saying that the technology behind convergence of banking and telecoms would revolutionise access to finance for millions in emerging markets.

"This partnership with KCB marks yet another milestone in deepening the accessibility of Airtel Money to our customers throughout the country while partnering with key players in the country" said Airtel Kenya chief executive officer Adil El Youssefi.