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20 Best Lending Apps in Kenya

20 Best Loan Apps in Kenya offering Instant Loans in 2025

Instant digital loans are becoming popular in Kenya, particularly during times of need. With the emergence of M-Pesa most Banks and other financial institutions have adopted mobile app lending, and some of these institutions have even cooperated with it.

Most of these lending mobile apps in Kenya have greatly improved their services to meet customer needs. Banks provide loans based on statements; the application process is long and involves a lot of documentation. In addition, attaching a log book, title deed, or any other form of security is a requirement. This means bank loans would benefit a few lucky people with established businesses or salaried employees.

This created a need for solutions targeting low-income earners. Lending apps were developed to fill this gap since they offered cheaper loans with faster processing timelines at lower interest rates.

In this article, we are going to outline the best mobile apps in Kenya offering instant loans in 2025.

Top Lending Mobile Apps in Kenya

Emergencies among other pressing needs require financial assistance provided by mobile applications. You will need to be creditworthy to qualify for the loans.  Conducting a background check is key when selecting a platform and helps in decision-making. The best lending mobile apps in Kenya include;

1. Mshwari on Safaricom’s M-pesa

It is simply a revolutionary banking product that allows M-Pesa customers to save and request loans. One can access a loan using a smartphone or offline application. It is a mobile lending service that doesn’t require documentation to process loans. However, penalties are imposed on defaulters, limiting future access to loans.

To access go to M-pesa select loans and savings and proceed to make a request. Mshwari limit is revised depending on the credit history and repayment records. Defaulters are blocked from accessing future loans and risk being listed on the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB). Customers are reminded through notifications to make prompt repayments to improve credit ratings.

2. Fuliza on Safaricom’s M-pesa

This is a Safaricom product that offers continuous overdraft service. It facilitates M-Pesa transactions even with sufficient funds on your phone. This product offers convenience when transacting to facilitate operations when running errands. The repayment period is 30 days, and interest accrues when the installment is not settled. The amount is recovered from the M-Pesa account balance or once money is received.

To activate ensure you are a registered M-Pesa customer and dial 234# or use the mySafaricom app. Choose Fuliza M-PESA to opt in enter 98 more and choose 1 to adhere to the terms and conditions. This is an easy sign-up process that takes less time and you begin enjoying Fuliza services.

3. Tala Mobile App

Tala bridges digital and cash ecosystems to assist customers in seamlessly managing their financial obligations. It is popular and one of the best mobile apps in Kenya offering instant loans in 2025. This is evident from the statistics of downloads made which are approximately 10 million.

Tala embraces the best of artificial intelligence technology to deliver a customized, rewarding financial experience. Their proprietary data tools open key access to solutions that could not be accessed over time.

This is the widely known mobile loan lender within the digital lending space. The application is user-friendly with good ratings that build prospects’ trust. It has a flawless step-by-step application process that determines creditworthiness.

Customers are updated when funds are disbursed to their M-Pesa account. Moreover, the loan limit is up to Ksh. 50,000 and repayment is made via the Tala app or using paybill 851900 or USSD code *846#.

4. M-Pawa -Stima Sacco

Stima Sacco prides itself on lighting up people’s lives in many ways. Stima Savings and Credit Co-operative Society gives access to development loans. It targets Stima Sacco members and one can access and repay loans via the app or use USSD *489#.

The loan range is between KES 500 to KES 120,000 with an interest rate between 4% and 7%.

For registration, present a copy of your Kenyan National Identity Card or valid Kenyan Passport. In addition, have colored a passport-size photograph and a copy of your KRA PIN certificate.

Become a member to enjoy a wide range of products and services tailored to meet customer’s financial needs. This is open to resident or non-resident Kenyans, an individual, a group, or a corporation.

5. KCB M-Pesa on Safaricom M-pesa app

KCB M-PESA is a savings and loan service that enables M-PESA customers to save as little as KSh. 1. You can access credit from KSh. 100 payable within a month.

This mobile-based banking service targets Safaricom M-Pesa and KCB customers. You can obtain an instant mobile loan at a rate of 7.35% repayable within a month. To access, select your M-Pesa account and choose the loans and savings option.

Customers need to save regularly for a set period and will earn interest of up to 6.3% p.a. on their savings balance. Moreover, loans are accessible instantly and credited to M-PESA accounts as little as KES 100 and up to KES 1 million attracting a facility fee of 8.93%.

6. Timiza- Absa Bank Kenya

This is a product for Absa Bank offering mobile banking services. You can access quick loans and perform transactions. An alternative way of accessing the services is by dialing *848# and following the simple steps. The loan repayment period is within a month which may assist in paying bills and purchasing airtime among other services.

Customers can also obtain insurance when carrying out transactions via Timiza using a phone. To qualify for a loan, you need to be an M-PESA subscriber for more than 6 months and have been regularly using other Safaricom services. The mobile application is available on Google or App Store.

7. Branch Mobile App

Branch makes it easy for the general public in Kenya to access loans anytime, anywhere. The application process takes seconds and receive your loan straight into your mobile money account.

The branch loan app is equated to a bank in your pocket available when needed. The credit platform offers loans instantly at competitive rates as may be needed by customers.

Their loan limit ranges between KES. 500- KES 30,000. Once you download the app from Play Store proceed with the registration process and request a loan.

8. Hikash Mobile App

This is an Android mobile app designed to offer financial solutions to customers. Download the App then fill out the online forms to complete the sign-up process. Hikash offers competitive rates in the market and is customized to meet user needs.

Defaulters limit their freedom to access credit services as a result of the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) listing which underscores creditworthiness.

9. Zenka

Zenka mobile app offers emergency loans between Ksh. 500 to Ksh. 30,000 issued after evaluating the ability to repay the loan. One has to create an account and feed personal details as well as income frequency. The application is available on the Play Store with an easy sign-up process.

Late repayment attracts an interest rate of 1.5%) per day. This is based on the outstanding principal amount until the loan is fully cleared.

10. KCB mobile loan

This is a platform for Kenya Commercial Bank meant to offer instant mobile loans to customers. Clients choose repayment tenor which ranges from 1 day to 12 months. The bank adopted this innovation to reach out to a wider market and increase its customer base. This made a positive impact on the economy since there was easy access to capital to boost businesses.

To enjoy the services, dial *522# then select Loans and Savings. Choose KCB Mobile Loan then select Loan Request. Input the preferred timeline let’s say 1 month and proceed to enter the amount you wish to borrow. Select the KCB Account where the loan should be disbursed and finalize by entering your KCB mobile banking PIN

11. Kashway

Kashway is a mobile lending app that allows customers to apply for loans in simple steps and get money instantly. It offers loans of up to KES 60,000 and requires your details to qualify your application. Repayment history determines your creditworthiness and loan limit as determined by set guidelines.

The application process is completely digital and easy to be performed using a mobile phone anywhere. The mobile lending app is licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).

It is one of the best mobile apps in Kenya offering instant loans in 2025. This is supported by 5 million downloads made on Google Play Store.

12. Equity Mobile App

Equity Mobile App is a game-changer that replaced the EazzyBanking App. The app is simple and easy to use with more features and improved user experience. It enables customers to access funds, build savings, and get instant loans as well as instant funds transfers.

This is a product for Equity Bank that gives instant loans within 24 hours after making a request. Money is transferred to the customer’s bank account, m-pesa line, or offline Equitel sim card line.

An alternative method of accessing the loans is by dialing *247# and following the steps. The app offers self-service facilitation that assists customers in registering and performing transactions.

13. Zash Loan-Mobile App

Zash Loan offers seamless credit services to its customers. Download the App and then install then complete the registration process by filling out online forms.

Proceed with making a loan request and wait for approval. Money is transferred to the customer’s personal M-Pesa registered number.

14. Zuri Cash App

Zuri Cash is a fintech platform that provides digital financial solutions in response to customers’ needs. They are focused on online micro and consumer financing and aim to empower them.

To apply for a loan with ZuriCash, start by checking the online calculator to choose the desired loan amount and terms. Fill out all the required details accurately and wait for approval. A message is sent via SMS notifying you about the request you made.

15. Truepesa Mobile App

This mobile app offers reliable mobile loans with easy payment and borrowing steps.  The app is available on the Play Store and Apple Store. One can access instant loans that are disbursed to an M-Pesa account.

If you repay on time, your credit limit will be higher meaning you will access more funds. Truepesa ensures efficient customer service when handling complaints.

16. Hustler fund

This digital financial inclusion initiative targets low-income earners. Personal Loan Products are obtained by registering through USSD *254#. Members of the general public are eligible for this loan.

The interest rate charged is 8% and a 1.5% default rate for late payments. The repayment timeline is 14 days and may be extended to 30 days. More information can be obtained via the Hustler Fund website.

17. NCBA loop- NCBA Bank

The NCBA Bank product allows customers to check their legibility and access loans of up to KES 300,000. The sign-up process is easy and registration is free. Customer data captured during the application process is backed up and secured.

They offer overdraft services that assist customers during unexpected times. Customers can also shop for what they desire today and pay later in convenient installments within their budget. The loop app can be downloaded from here and installed on your phone to enjoy the services.

18. MCoopcash- Co-operative Bank

The app allows registered Co-operative Bank customers to transact and sign up free of charge. Loan uptake is from KES 1,000 to KES 500,000 and the repayment period is 1-3 months.

Customers need to open a salary account with Co-operative Bank and present a copy of their KRA PIN to access MCoopcash services. Moreover, transactions can still be made by dialing *667#. Mobile applications are available on the Play Store or Apple Store.

19. SC Juza- Standard Chartered Bank

SC-Juza is a mobile app that allows one to borrow from KES 1000 and get money instantly. The maximum loan period is 61 days with a simple repayment plan.

Customers are encouraged to make prompt repayments to improve their credit scores. To download the app go to Play Store or App Store then install it on your gadget.

20. M-fanisi- Maisha Micro Finance Bank

Kenya Bankers Association reported in 2023 that M-fanisi was the first microfinance to roll out a telco-backed mobile-based banking service. Its sign-up process is easy and free and targets Safaricom M-pesa and Airtel Money subscribers.  

You can access the services using USSD code *281# or download the App on Google Playstore.

Which are the best loan apps in Kenya?

This has streamlined the bureaucratic processes associated with loan processing. Mobile services have become popular and preferred by all ages. The best mobile apps in Kenya in 2025 is, Mshwari, Fuliza, Tala, M-Pawa, KCB M-Pesa, Timiza, Branch, Hikash, Zenka, Kashway, Equity Mobile App, Zash Loan, Zuri Cash, Truepesa, Hustler fund, NCBA loop, MCoopcash, SC Juza, and Mfanisi.

What are the best loan apps without CRB checks?

1. Tala
2. Branch
3. Zenka
4. Kashway

Is the instant loan app safe?

Mobile app money lenders are licensed and regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and this customers confidence when engaging with them.

Which mobile app can offer loans instantly?

Safaricom’s M-pesa has positioned itself as a leading loan lender most readily through M-Shwari, Fuliza, and KCB M-PESA.

Where can customers report mobile apps in Kenya?

This is done through the Digital Financial Services Association of Kenya (DFSAK) which was incorporated in 2019.

Which Loan apps were banned in Kenya?

Several were banned, they were not operating within the law. Google also shared a notice to ban unlicensed loan apps on its online store. Government agencies are monitoring the operations of the lending apps.

Conclusion

Mobile lending apps have revolutionized the financial sector by introducing easy credit access. This means customers can meet their obligations by making prompt loan repayments. Businesses have grown and created a positive impact on the economy.

When choosing a mobile lender, consider their interest rate, repayment period, and credit limit. Also, note that the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) Regulates digital lenders by setting operational measures.

DISCLAIMER: This article is not sponsored in any way by a third party. It is meant to inform the general public and does not address individual situations. It is not a substitute for professional guidance. Any intended move you take upon the information provided here is strictly at your peril and responsibility!

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