So, you’re on a vacation and intentionally unplugging or in an area with no network coverage and you fear missing out on something important? We all have been there—when answering calls is impossible but the fear of missing out persists. Airtel Kenya has a solution for you: call divert (also known as call forwarding). This feature allows you to redirect incoming calls to another number so you stay connected even when your Airtel line is not reachable.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to activate, manage and deactivate Airtel’s call divert and voicemail using both phone settings and USSD codes.

What Is Call Divert and Why Use It?

Call divert is a network feature that redirects incoming calls from your Airtel SIM to another number. It’s useful when:

  • Your phone is switched off or out of service range.

  • You’re already on another call.

  • You’re unable to answer.

  • You want calls to go directly to another line, like a personal assistant or office line.

Option 1: Activate Call Divert via Phone Settings

This is for smartphone users:

  1. Open your Phone (Dialer) app.

  2. Tap the three-dot menu (usually top right).

  3. Select Calling Accounts or Settings.

  4. Choose your Airtel Kenya SIM.

  5. Tap Call Forwarding.

Here you’ll see four forwarding options:

  • Always Forward: Redirect all incoming calls.

  • When Busy: Divert calls if you’re already on a call.

  • When Unanswered: Forward only if you don’t pick up after a few rings.

  • When Unreachable: Activate if your device is turned off or out of coverage.

For each option:

  • Enter the phone number you want to divert calls to.

  • Save or confirm the setting as prompted.

Option 2: Use a Dial Code to Set Up Call Divert

If your phone doesn’t support call forwarding in settings, you can use a USSD code:

  • To activate call divert:
    Dial *002*[forwarding number]# and press OK.
    Example: *002*0722000000#

  • To deactivate call divert:
    Dial ##002# and press OK.
    This will disable all active forwarding settings on your Airtel line.### Call Divert and Voicemail Note

Option 3: Activate Airtel Voicemail as an Alternative

If you're low on credit or prefer a passive way to receive voice messages, Airtel Kenya’s voicemail service is a practical fallback. Here’s how to activate it:

  1. Subscribe via SMS:
    Send SUB VMS to 555.

  2. Activate via call:
    Dial 555 or +254733105555 and follow the audio prompts.

  3. USSD Activation:
    Dial **62*+254733105555# and press OK to forward unreachable calls to voicemail.

  4. Set Voicemail Number in Settings (optional):

    • Go to the Phone app > Settings > Voicemail

    • Set your voicemail number as +254733105555

To unsubscribe, send UBSUB VMS to 555 or call the voicemail number and follow the deactivation prompts.

You can’t have call divert and voicemail active at the same time for the same condition (e.g. when unreachable). One will override the other. Choose based on your needs—whether you want calls to go to another number or capture messages for later.

Conclusion

Call divert on Airtel Kenya is more than a backup plan—it’s a way to be in control. Whether you’re stepping away, out of reach or just managing your availability, call forwarding or voicemail ensures you never miss a call again.