In Kenya, mobile phone numbers are not assigned to users permanently. The contract between subscribers and mobile service providers like Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom is based on continued usage. If a SIM card is inactive for a long time, the number can be reclaimed and reassigned to a new user.

How Long Before a Mobile Number is Deactivated?

Top mobile service providers in Kenya wait up to 6 months of inactivity before declaring a number dormant. However, reissuing the number to a new user can take up to 12 months. During this time, the number may be suspended but not removed from the system.

In some cases, users are given a grace period to reactivate their line by loading airtime.

Why People Abandon Their Mobile Numbers

People abandon their mobile numbers for many reasons — some voluntary, others circumstantial.

Voluntary Reasons

A common voluntary reason is privacy after gaining public status, such as winning a political seat. It’s not uncommon for newly elected officials in Kenya to change their numbers to avoid constant calls from voters, friends or those seeking favors.

Circumstantial Reasons

Others may change numbers due to security concerns, especially if their old number was exposed to scams, harassment or linked to criminal activity. Fraudsters often abandon SIM cards after using them to defraud unsuspecting Kenyans and these numbers can later fall into the hands of innocent users.

A real-life example: a friend bought a Safaricom SIM card and discovered it had been previously used to borrow several mobile loans. Unfortunately, Safaricom’s response was vague, telling him to sort the issue with individual loan providers.

How to Check When Your SIM Will Be Deactivated

You can estimate when your number may be considered inactive by checking your airtime balance and the expiry date. This usually gives you an idea of the remaining active period which is usually not more than 6 months.

Safaricom's SIM Lifetime Extension Option

Safaricom has introduced an option allowing customers to extend the lifetime of their SIM cards for a fee. This service is particularly beneficial for individuals who anticipate extended periods of inactivity, such as those traveling abroad. By paying a specified amount, customers can prevent their SIM cards from being deactivated due to inactivity. Details regarding the fee structure and extension duration can be obtained directly from Safaricom's customer service channels.

How to Prevent Your Mobile Number from Being Reassigned

To keep your line active and not deactivated:

  • ✅ Register your SIM card correctly with your provider.

  • ✅ Top up regularly — at least once every 3 months.

  • ✅ Make calls or send texts occasionally to show usage.

  • ✅ Top up or use it monthly.