Mobile airtime remains a vital part of everyday communication in Ghana, supporting voice calls, SMS, and even data bundle purchases. Whether you are helping a family member, supporting a friend, or managing business communications, the ability to send airtime to another person is an essential service.

For users of MTN Ghana, there are multiple convenient ways to buy airtime for someone else. These methods are designed to be fast, secure, and accessible across different types of mobile devices.

This ASJ editorial explains the various ways to send airtime on MTN in Ghana, including step-by-step instructions and important considerations.

Why Send Airtime to Someone Else?

Sending airtime is common in Ghana for several reasons:

• Supporting family members or dependents

• Assisting friends during emergencies

• Managing airtime for employees or teams

• Gifting airtime for communication needs

With mobile connectivity playing a central role in daily life, airtime transfers have become part of everyday financial and social interactions.

Methods to Buy Airtime for Someone on MTN

There are several ways to send airtime using MTN Ghana services.

1. Use MTN Share (Airtime Transfer via USSD)

MTN Share allows users to transfer airtime directly from their balance to another MTN number.

Steps:

1. Dial *198#

2. Select Transfer Airtime

3. Enter the recipient’s MTN number

4. Enter the amount you want to send

5. Enter your transfer PIN

6. Confirm the transaction

Setting or Resetting Your MTN Share PIN

Before using MTN Share, you may need to set or reset your PIN:

• Dial *198#

• Choose Manage PIN

• Follow the prompts

This ensures secure transactions.

2. Buy Airtime via Mobile Money (MoMo)

You can purchase airtime for another number using Mobile Money.

Steps:

1. Dial *170#

2. Select Airtime & Bundles

3. Choose Buy Airtime

4. Select For Others

5. Enter the recipient’s MTN number

6. Enter the amount

7. Confirm with your MoMo PIN

This method is widely used because it does not require existing airtime balance.

3. Use the MyMTN App

The MyMTN App provides a digital interface for buying airtime.

Steps:

1. Open the MyMTN App

2. Tap Buy / Send

3. Select Airtime

4. Choose For Others

5. Enter the phone number and amount

6. Complete payment

This option is convenient for smartphone users.

4. Use Scratch Cards (Manual Method)

Although less common today, scratch cards can still be used.

Steps:

1. Buy a recharge card

2. Share the recharge code with the recipient

Alternatively, you can load it directly on their phone if you have access.

5. Use Third-Party Payment Platforms

Some financial apps and fintech platforms in Ghana allow users to purchase airtime for others.

These platforms often support:

• Bank card payments

• Wallet-based transactions

• Scheduled airtime transfers

Always ensure you use trusted platforms for security.

Important Things to Know

Transfer Limits

There may be minimum and maximum limits on airtime transfers.

Transaction Fees

Some methods, especially MoMo, may include small transaction charges.

Network Restrictions

Airtime transfers typically work only within the same network (MTN to MTN).

Correct Number Entry

Always double-check the recipient’s number before confirming the transaction.

Benefits of Sending Airtime Digitally

Modern airtime transfer systems offer several advantages:

• Instant delivery

• Convenience without physical vouchers

• Secure transactions

• Ability to support others remotely

These benefits make airtime transfers a reliable option for both personal and business use.

Common Challenges Users Face

Despite the simplicity of the process, users may encounter:

• Incorrect PIN errors

• Insufficient balance

• Network delays

• Wrong number entry

Most of these issues can be resolved by verifying details and retrying the transaction.

Security Tips When Sending Airtime

To ensure safe transactions:

• Never share your PIN with anyone

• Use official MTN channels

• Confirm recipient details before sending

• Avoid using unsecured networks

Security is especially important when using Mobile Money services.

The Role of Airtime in Ghana’s Digital Economy

Airtime is more than just a communication tool—it is part of Ghana’s broader digital economy.

It enables:

• Communication for businesses

• Access to internet services

• Financial transactions through Mobile Money

Telecom providers like MTN Ghana continue to expand services to support these needs.

Conclusion From ASJ

Buying airtime for someone on MTN in Ghana is a simple and flexible process, with multiple options available to suit different users.

Whether you choose USSD transfers, Mobile Money, mobile apps, or traditional recharge methods, each approach provides a reliable way to stay connected and support others.

By understanding these methods and following the correct steps, users can send airtime quickly, securely, and efficiently.

FAQs

How can I send airtime to another MTN number?

You can use MTN Share (*198#) or Mobile Money (*170#) to send airtime.

Can I send airtime without having airtime balance?

Yes, you can use Mobile Money to buy airtime for someone else.

Is there a fee for sending airtime?

Some methods may include small transaction charges.

Can I send airtime to other networks?

No, airtime transfers are usually limited to MTN Ghana numbers.

What happens if I send airtime to the wrong number?

Airtime transactions are usually irreversible, so always confirm details before sending.

Source: Accra Street Journal 

Last Updated on March 17, 2026 by Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.

accrastreetjournal.com/