How to Reactivate Safaricom Line
If you’re wondering how to reactivate Safaricom line after it has become inactive or expired, there are simple steps you can follow to get it back.
Quick Answer – At a Glance
To reactivate your Safaricom line:
Dial 1002# or *456# → Recreate Old SIM.
Insert the SIM into your phone.
Top up airtime within 7 days.
If that fails, buy a replacement SIM and visit a Safaricom shop with your ID.
What an Inactive or Expired Line Means
A Safaricom line becomes inactive if unused or not topped up for around 90 days.
After longer periods, the line may be recycled and given to another customer.
Acting quickly increases the chance of successful reactivation.
Recreate Your Old SIM Using USSD
To reactivate Safaricom line using USSD:
Dial 1002# and select Recreate Old SIM, or dial *456# → What’s New → Recreate Old SIM.
Insert the SIM into your phone and restart if necessary.
Top up airtime within 7 days to keep it active.
Safaricom
SIM Replacement for Lost, Damaged or Long-Inactive Lines
Buy a replacement Safaricom SIM card (about KES 50 prepaid).
Insert the new SIM into your phone.
Use the self-service code to link it to your old number.
If it fails, visit a Safaricom shop with your ID.
An agent will verify and reactivate the line.
Afritech Media
Reactivation for Suspended or Security-Held Lines
Visit the nearest Safaricom shop.
Carry your national ID or passport.
Explain why the line was suspended.
Provide any extra verification required.
The line will be restored once cleared.
Tuko
Tips to Keep Your Line Active
Top up airtime regularly.
Use Safaricom Daima to extend line validity.
Keep the SIM in use to maintain activity.
For travel abroad, enable roaming or notify customer care.
Tech-ish
FAQs
Q: How long before Safaricom recycles an inactive line?
After about 90 days of inactivity, the line is at risk of being recycled.
Q: Does it cost money to reactivate?
USSD reactivation is free. SIM replacement costs about KES 50 for prepaid users.
Q: What if I forget my SIM PIN?
You can reactivate at a Safaricom shop by presenting your ID.
Q: Can I reactivate my line abroad?
Most reactivation requires being in Kenya, but customer care may advise on remote options.
Q: Will M-Pesa be active again after reactivation?
Yes, but if the line was inactive for long, you may need to verify or re-register.
