List Of Best Mobile Loan Apps in Kenya. Mobile loans have revolutionized how people access credit in Kenya. It’s now easier to get a loan through mobile applications than some years earlier when accessing credit was a nightmare. Mobile loans have now been a go-to place for people especially small-scale traders who have no financial muscle to get credit or even access millions.

As of 2024, Kenya had  66 million active mobile phone subscribers as of March 2023. With a total population of 51.39 million, more Kenyans own mobile phones than any other gadget (Computer, TV, radio, etc.).Actually, its like each Kenyans own more than one Sim Card. With these hard economic times, more Kenyans are likely to subscribe to mobile loan apps because of the ease of access to these services compared to traditional lenders, like banks and MFIs.

List Of Best Mobile Loan Apps in Kenya -What is a Mobile Loan

In Kenya, a mobile loan refers to a certain type of loan that is accessible and processed through mobile phones through a service called M-pesa. This concept gained popularity with the rise of mobile money services in Kenya, such as M-Pesa and Mobile Banking, which allowed users to conduct financial transactions, including borrowing and repaying loans, through their mobile phones.

Mobile loans in Kenya are often provided by financial institutions (Which Must be approved by CBK
) including banks and microfinance institutions, as well as specialized mobile loan providers. These loans are typically small, short-term loans designed to meet immediate financial needs. The application process is often simplified, and approval decisions can be made quickly, sometimes within minutes. The banks and this institution use the Credit reference Bureaus to know the creditworthiness of a person.

To apply for a mobile loan in Kenya, individuals usually need to have a registered mobile money account say M-Pesa, and history of mobile money transactions, and sometimes a good credit history with the lending institution. The loan amount, repayment terms, and interest rates vary depending on the provider which will determine what % of money they will charge you as interest.

One of the Best advantages of mobile loans in Kenya is their accessibility, especially for individuals who may not have access to traditional banking services. However, it’s essential to note that borrowers to be aware of the terms and conditions, including interest rates, fees, and repayment schedules, to make informed financial decisions. Additionally, the regulatory environment surrounding mobile loans has evolved to ensure consumer protection and responsible lending practices.

List Of Best Mobile Loan Apps in Kenya – What are the Pros and Cons?

Pros and Cons of the Best Mobile Loan Apps in Kenya

When choosing a loan app, it is essential to look at the pros and cons of each one.

Pros: 

  • Quick & Easy Access: Most apps offer quick and easy loan access without lengthy paperwork or wait times: valid Kenyan ID, an M-PESA account, and a consistent source of income.
  • Flexible Repayment Terms: Most apps offer flexible repayment terms with short to long-term periods, allowing you to pay back at your own pace.
  • Convenient for small emergency loans: Mobile loan apps are perfect for small emergency loans, as you can get the money quickly without filling out paperwork or waiting in line.

Cons: 

  • High-interest rates:  Interest rates on mobile loans are often higher than those of traditional banks or other lending institutions.
  • Unclear Terms & Conditions: The terms and conditions of some apps can be vague or hard to understand, making it difficult for users to know what they’re getting into before agreeing to a loan.
  • Limited Loan Amounts: Most apps offer limited loan amounts that may need more to cover significant expenses.
  • Hidden charges: Some apps may have hidden charges, such as loan processing fees or service fees which can add to the overall cost of the loan.
  • Low Default Rates: Default rates tend to be lower with these apps, meaning that you may not get approved for a loan if your credit score isn’t good enough.
  • Eligibility Requirements: Each app’s eligibility criteria can take time.
  • Bad customer service: Some apps need better customer service, making it easier to get help when you need it. Choosing the Right App for Your Needs Choosing the right loan app for your needs can be challenging.
  • Invasion of privacy: All apps can read and access your phonebook, messages, contacts, and other personal data. This enters in the  list of List of Best Mobile Loan Apps in Kenya [Adapted from Nasonga.com  ]

Here is the Best List Of Best Mobile Loan Apps in Kenya 2024.

1.Safaricom Mobile Loans 

  • Fuliza
  • Mshwari
  • KCB M-Pesa

1. Branch Loan App 

Branch is a popular mobile loan app in Kenya. It provides instant mobile loans to users based on their financial behavior and creditworthiness. Here are some key features and information about the Branch loan app in Kenya:

  • Loan Amounts: Branch offers varying loan amounts, and the amount you can borrow is determined by your creditworthiness. Typically, users can start with smaller loan amounts and gradually qualify for higher amounts as they build a positive borrowing history.
  • Application Process: To apply for a loan through the Branch app, users need to download the app from the respective app store and create an account. During the registration process, you may be required to provide some personal information E.g ID  Numbers Etc, and the app may request access to your mobile money and call log data to assess your creditworthiness. They may also want to check your information with the credit bureau
  • Credit Scoring: Branch uses advanced algorithms to analyze users’ mobile phone data, including call logs, SMS history, and mobile money transactions, to assess credit risk. This alternative credit scoring approach allows individuals without a traditional credit history to qualify for loans.
  • Interest Rates and Repayment:  Branch interest rates on Branch loans can vary from person to person, and they typically have a short repayment period. Customers are informed of the interest rates they need to pay and repayment terms before accepting the loan. Loan repayment is usually done through mobile money platforms like M-Pesa.
  • Loan Approval and Disbursement: The loan approval process is often quick, and once approved, funds are disbursed directly to the user’s mobile money account.
  • Loan Limits and Gradual Increase: During the initial stages users may have access to smaller loan amounts, but with responsible borrowing and timely repayments, individuals can qualify for larger loans in subsequent borrowing.
  • Customer Support: Branch provides customer support through the app, and users can reach out for assistance or clarification on any issues they may encounter.

Limit: Ksh 1000- 70000 

 

2. Tala 

Tala is another popular mobile loan app in Kenya that provides instant loans to users. Here are some key features and information about the Tala loan app:

  1. Loan Amounts:Tala was known as Mkopo Rahisi but was later rebranded to Tala. Tala Loan App is among Kenya’s best and oldest mobile loan applications. Over the years it has existed in Kenya, Tala has become the most trusted mobile loan provider and one of Kenya’s best instant loan apps.Tala offers loans up to Ksh 30,000 and disburses the loan through M-Pesa. Tala prides itself on giving loans in less than 5 minutes, and you will be able to build your credit up to the maximum amount by repaying your loans in time.

    Tala has over 5 Million downloads on the Google  Play Store and is one of Kenya’s most popular money-lending apps. To get a loan from Tala, you must download it to your smartphone and create an account. If they do not list you on CRB, you will get your first loan to choose the payment terms.

3. Timiza Loan

Timiza is a mobile loan app in Kenya that is provided by Barclays Bank of Kenya, which is now known as Absa Bank Kenya. The Timiza app offers a range of financial services, including loans, savings, and insurance. Here are some key features and information about the Timiza loan app:

  1. Loan Amounts: Timiza  Loan app provides loans to users based on their creditworthiness. The loan a user can get may vary, and users can apply for loans directly through the app.
  2. The Application Process: For you to apply for a loan through the Timiza app, users need to download the app, create an account, and provide the necessary information. The application process typically involves submitting personal details and consenting to the app’s terms and conditions.
  3. Credit Score: The Timiza App assesses the users’ creditworthiness through its algorithms, which may take into account various factors, including the user’s transaction history and other financial behaviors.
  4. Loan Interest Rates and Repayment: Timiza App provides information about the interest rates and repayment terms before a customer accept the loan. The interest rates can vary based on the loan amount and repayment period. Repayment is usually done through the mobile money platform.

4. List Of Best Mobile Loan Apps in Kenya – MCo-op cash

Mco-op Cash Loan app enables the Co-operative Bank of Kenya customers to access bank services, including emergency loans. It gives customers account balances and transfers cash from their MCo-op Cash to Mpesa, Airtel.

Mco-op also allows bank customers to purchase airtime from the MCo-op cash account, among other services. With MCOOP Cash App, you can apply for up to 200,000 shillings, 1.5 times your net salary. You can download the Mcoop Cash Loan App on your iPhone store or iPhone store.

5.KCB M-Pesa

The KCB M-Pesa app is a mobile banking application is offered by the Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) one of the oldest Banks in Kenya .When  Safaricom’s M-Pesa platform Partnered with KCB Bank they brought you KCB MPESA. KCB Mpesa is listed in the List Of Best Mobile Loan Apps in Kenya 2024. It provides users with a range of financial services, including mobile loans, savings, and other banking transactions. There are some key features and information about the KCB M-Pesa app:

  1. Mobile Fast Loans:  KCB M-Pesa app allows customers to access mobile loans directly from their mobile phones. The loan amounts and eligibility criteria may vary based on the user’s financial behavior and creditworthiness. This is determined by the creditworthiness of a person based on the
  2. Savings: Users can also use the app to open and manage savings accounts, allowing them to save and earn interest on their deposits.
  3. Transaction History: The app provides users with a transaction history, allowing them to track their financial activities and account balances.
  4. Paybill Payments:  Users can pay various bills including Kenya power bills, TV etc.
  5. Loan Repayment: For customers who have taken loans through the app, the KCB M-Pesa app facilitates the repayment process, often through the M-Pesa platform.
  6. App Security: The app is designed to be secure, with features such as PIN protection and other security measures to safeguard users’ financial information. This makes sure that the customer’s money is safe.
  7. Customer Support: KCB Mpesa has one of the best customer service in Kenya .

 6. Zenka Loan