If we look at the system there might be no big difference but if we look at it as a platform its different.In my opinion safaricom wants mobile money transfer to be synonymous with mpesa.Atleast thats what I would do.

Last time I checked there is some sort of mpesa api on google groups. At this point its applicability is low. Mobile money will slowly start replacing cash in a lot of environments but I wonder what initiatives will be used to support this move.

Let me give you an example of things I see possible with mobile money and ecommerce. A supermarket,I don't know which one will create an app where you can select the things in your house which have run out.Then when you plan on going shopping you just pay and when you reach there they have already packed everything for you.For extra money they can deliver.You just let the app turn on the GPS on your phone and your set. E/Mcommerce thrives on easy payment and good distribution systems.