Cash Loans in Kenya


You can borrow between KSh 1,000 and KSh 50,000 from M‑Shwari, repayable in 30 days, with a flat fee of 7.5% plus a 1.5% excise duty. Everything happens inside the M‑PESA menu—no apps, no long forms, just straight-to-the-point lending.

Advantages
  • Instant cash, no waiting – Once approved, the money lands in your M‑PESA within seconds.
  • No apps or downloads – You access it directly from your phone using the M‑PESA menu (*234# also works).
  • Combines saving and borrowing – The more you save, the better your chances of getting a higher loan limit.
  • Clear and fixed cost – You always know what you’ll repay—no hidden charges, no surprises.
  • Reliable for repeat users – If you repay on time, your loan limit keeps growing.
Disadvantages
  • One-month repayment only – If you don’t repay in 30 days, you’ll need to pay the full 7.5% fee again for an extension.
  • No early repayment benefit – Even if you pay early, you still get charged the full 7.5%.
  • Not everyone qualifies right away – You need consistent M‑PESA use and good standing to unlock the service.

M‑Shwari is clean and reliable, but you better plan your repayment to the date—there’s no room for delay here.


You can unlock up to KSh 50,000 straight to your M-PESA with M-Tala, paying a daily interest of 0.3% to 0.6% plus 20% tax. First-time users usually start with KSh 1,500 or so, and you choose how long you need—anywhere from 15 to 61 days.

Advantages
  • Money hits your phone in minutes – The whole process takes less time than boiling tea.
  • Hakuna paperwork – All they need is your ID and phone data; no collateral, no stress.
  • Loan limit grows fast – Keep paying on time and your limit goes up sharply, sometimes doubling in weeks.
  • You pick the due date – Choose a payback period that matches your hustle—whether it’s salary day or chama payout.
  • No funny charges – Everything is laid out upfront, no surprise deductions.
Disadvantages
  • Interest bites hard – When you do the math, the rates can easily pass 100% per year.
  • Easy to fall into debt loop – Borrow again to repay the last loan? Many people end up there.
  • They follow up aggressively – Some borrowers say M-Tala reps call and text nonstop if you’re late.

“I’d say M-Tala works best if you’re sharp with money and know you’ll repay on time—otherwise, it gets expensive quickly.”


With M-Branch, you can borrow anything from KSh 500 all the way to KSh 300,000 straight to your M-PESA. Repayment runs between 2% and 18% monthly interest (plus 20% tax), and you get to choose a period between 2 months and 1 year, depending on your limit and history.

Advantages
  • Money lands fast – Once approved, cash reflects in your M-PESA usually within an hour or two.
  • No forms, no queues – Just your ID and the app, no guarantors or collateral.
  • Flexible timelines – You set your repayment schedule—from 62 days up to 12 months.
  • Earn while you save – Branch wallet gives you up to 15% yearly interest, paid weekly.
  • Everything is clear – Interest and charges are broken down before you accept the loan, no hidden stuff.
Disadvantages
  • Interest can be heavy – If you’re not careful, the total annual cost can get really high—above 200%.
  • Too easy to borrow again – Some users borrow just to repay old loans, and the cycle continues.
  • App-based support only – No offices to walk into if you need help—you’re stuck with in-app chat.

“M-Branch can be helpful for short-term cash gaps, but the high cost means it should never be your everyday solution.”


KCB lets you access up to KSh 4 million in personal loans without needing collateral, and repayment can stretch up to 4 years depending on your salary or business profile. For faster, mobile-based borrowing, their KCB M-PESA loan gives between KSh 1,001 and KSh 1 million, with repayment periods ranging from a single day to 12 months.

Advantages
  • High loan limits – You can borrow bigger amounts than most mobile apps offer—up to KSh 10 million on payroll-backed loans.
  • Digital process is smooth – Apply through the app or online and get feedback within hours, sometimes even less.
  • You choose your term – Whether you want a short boost or a long-term plan, they’ve got options from days to years.
  • Rates are decent – Most personal loans fall around 19–21% annually, which is better than many mobile lenders.
  • Bonus rewards – KCB M-PESA loans earn you Simba Points that can be redeemed for airtime or banking services.
Disadvantages
  • It’s not cheap credit – With all the fees and interest combined, the final cost can be heavier than it first looks.
  • Bigger loans need backing – To unlock the top-tier limits, you’ll need security or your employer on board.
  • Support feels distant – Most issues are sorted via app chat or through branches—not always quick or smooth.

“KCB’s loan system works well for disciplined borrowers looking for structure and decent rates, but you need to keep your eye on the repayment schedule and the fine print.”


Equity lets you borrow anything from just KSh 100 all the way to KSh 3 million through the Eazzy Loan service, with repayment terms of up to 24 months straight from your phone. For salaried workers, Equiloan offers even bigger limits—up to KSh 5 million repayable over six years, deducted straight from your payslip.

Advantages
  • Money reflects instantly – With Eazzy Loan, funds hit your account in minutes, no paperwork, no drama.
  • Big limits for salaried staff – Those on payroll can tap into high check-off loans without the stress of finding a guarantor.
  • Flexible terms – You can choose to repay in a month, or spread it out over years depending on the product.
  • Digital-first access – From your phone or Equitel line, you handle everything—loan request to repayment tracking.
  • Lower rates this year – Equity dropped their reference rate recently, which has eased the cost for many borrowers.
Disadvantages
  • Loan cost adds up – Once you include interest, insurance and processing fees, it’s not exactly soft credit.
  • Not for everyone – You need to have used your Equity account actively for months or be in a company with a check-off agreement.
  • Some issues need the branch – App services don’t always solve everything—you might have to queue or call support.

“Equity loans are powerful tools for those who plan ahead, but without a clear repayment strategy, you might feel the pinch sooner than expected.”


You can borrow from KSh 1,000 to KSh 150,000 through the Timiza app or USSD code *848#, and the loan runs for 30 days flat. The total cost comes in at about 7.25% of the borrowed amount, made up of 1.083% interest, a 5% processing fee, and 20% tax on that fee.

Advantages
  • Fast and easy – Once approved, the loan reflects in your wallet almost instantly, and moving it to M-PESA is quick.
  • No bank needed – As long as you’re on Safaricom and have a clean M-PESA track record, you’re good to go.
  • Bigger limits than most apps – With time and consistency, you can unlock up to KSh 150K, which beats what most mobile lenders give.
  • Savings earn you more – Through Zidisha, your savings can grow at 9% yearly—and that interest hits your account every quarter.
  • Loyal customers get better treatment – The more you use Timiza for airtime, bills or loans, the better your future limits and approval speed.
Disadvantages
  • 30-day rule is strict – Whether it’s 5K or 50K, you have one month to pay back—no room for delays unless you pay extra to extend.
  • Withdrawals are not free – Every time you send money from Timiza to M-PESA, expect a deduction of around 25 to 32 bob.
  • Rollovers get expensive – If you extend the loan instead of clearing it, the cost can pile up fast.

“Timiza works well when you treat it like a one-month fix, not a long-term solution—borrow smart and repay fast.”


At Faulu, you can borrow anywhere from KSh 5,000 to KSh 6 million, with repayment periods going up to 8 years, depending on your income and loan type. Interest rates sit around 19% per year, and for salaried workers under check-off arrangements, loans can be processed and disbursed in less than 12 hours.

Advantages
  • Big money options – You can access up to KSh 6 million without collateral, which is rare for a microfinance lender.
  • Long repayment terms – They let you repay slowly over time, with some loans stretching up to 96 months.
  • Quick processing for salary earners – If your employer is on Faulu’s list, loans move fast and you get a discount on the processing fee.
  • Tailored loans for every hustle – Whether you’re farming, running a small biz, or sorting school fees, there’s a product built just for that.
  • Rewards for clearing early – Pay before time, and you could save on interest or fees.
Disadvantages
  • Cost adds up over time – That 19% yearly interest feels heavy if you’re repaying over many years.
  • You may need training – Some loan types require you to attend group meetings or trainings before approval.
  • Group loans come with pressure – You co-guarantee each other, so one person messing up can drag the rest down.

“Faulu gives real access to serious money for real goals, but the key is to stay disciplined—big loans come with big responsibility.”


Faulu offers loan amounts starting from KSh 5,000 and stretching up to KSh 6 million, with repayment periods of up to 96 months depending on your profile and the type of loan. Most products come with interest rates around 19% per annum, and salaried borrowers under check-off agreements can get their funds within 12 hours.

Advantages
  • Big loans without collateral – You don’t need to bring land or logbooks to borrow serious amounts—just good records and consistency.
  • Flexible payback timelines – Whether you’re in for 3 months or 8 years, they’ll work with your budget.
  • Faster for salaried staff – If your employer is in their system, you skip long waits and get your cash quick.
  • Customised for real hustles – They have loans for farmers, mama mboga, school fees, boda riders—name it.
  • Reward for early clearance – If you finish your loan early, they sometimes slash interest or cancel fees.
Disadvantages
  • Interest adds up slowly – Over many years, that 19% starts to feel heavy, especially if your income is tight.
  • Some products need training or group support – You may have to sit in on sessions or join a group to qualify.
  • Group loans can be risky – If one member messes up, the rest feel the heat too.

“Faulu is good for serious borrowers who’ve done their maths and know they’re building something, not just spending.”


Zenka gives you access to loans starting from KSh 500 all the way to KSh 200,000, and you choose how long to repay—anywhere between 7 and 61 days. The total cost includes interest from around 2.45% to as high as 39%, plus a one-time service fee, all shown upfront before you hit “Accept”.

Advantages
  • Money hits fast – After approval, cash lands in your M-PESA within minutes—no queues, no waiting.
  • Zero paperwork hustle – No forms, no guarantors, no collateral—just your phone, ID, and a working M-PESA line.
  • Loan limits grow quickly – If you pay on time, your limit goes up steadily—some users get to KSh 200K within months.
  • Flexible repayment – You pick your timeline, and you can even extend or top up an active loan when needed.
  • No hidden charges – Everything is broken down in the app before you borrow—what you see is what you pay.
Disadvantages
  • Cost can bite – Interest and fees stack up fast, especially if you roll over or borrow for longer periods.
  • Late payment penalties – Miss your deadline and Zenka charges extra—so delays aren’t cheap.
  • No physical branches – Everything runs through the app or customer care hotline, which can feel limiting when issues arise.

“Zenka works well if you’re disciplined, but that convenience isn’t free—borrow wisely or it’ll burn your pocket.”


Okash dishes out loans starting from KSh 500 all the way up to KSh 60,000, with repayment periods of 4 to 12 weeks. You’ll pay around 1.2% interest per day plus a processing fee, and if you delay repayment, there’s a 2% daily penalty that kicks in hard.

Advantages
  • Money lands in minutes – After approval, the loan reflects in your M-PESA almost instantly—no queues, no drama.
  • Zero paperwork – No forms, no waiting rooms—just your ID, M-PESA activity and phone data do the work.
  • Loan limit grows fast – Start small, but with good repayment, you can climb to KSh 60K or more.
  • You see all charges upfront – Before you borrow, the app shows interest, fees, and what you’ll repay—no guessing games.
  • Smart system reads your habits – The app checks how you use your phone and M-PESA to decide your loan limit.
Disadvantages
  • It’s not cheap credit – Daily interest might seem small, but over time it gets heavy—especially on longer loans.
  • Late? You’ll feel it – Miss the due date, and a 2% daily penalty kicks in, which can mess up your next loan chances.
  • All-digital, no face-to-face help – If you run into issues, there’s no branch to walk into—you’re stuck with in-app or call support.

“Okash can save your day in a tight spot, but only if you repay on time—because the penalties are brutal if you don’t.”


You can borrow up to KSh 2 million using your car logbook as security, with cash hitting your account in just about 16 hours. For smaller, quicker loans, their mobile option “Ezua Chapaa” sends money to your phone in under 6 hours, with terms shared clearly before you commit.

Advantages
  • Quick turnaround – Once approved, most people get their money the same day—no long queues or delays.
  • High limits on logbook loans – KSh 2 million is nothing to sneeze at, and you don’t have to sell your car to access it.
  • Flexible options – Whether you want something small through your phone or a bigger loan with collateral, they’ve got both ends covered.
  • Everything is upfront – You’ll see interest rates, repayment dates, and charges before you borrow—no stories later.
  • You apply online – No need to walk into a branch. Everything happens via app or phone, even document uploads.
Disadvantages
  • Car required for big loans – Without a vehicle logbook, the top-tier amounts are out of reach.
  • Interest isn’t the same for everyone – Your rate depends on how much you borrow and how long you want to repay—some people end up paying more than they expect.
  • It’s not a full bank – You can borrow, but don’t expect current accounts or savings services—they’re not in that space.

“Momentum’s logbook loan is a solid option for people who need real cash fast, but once you borrow, stick to your plan—these are not loans to mess around with.”


With Jijenge, you can get a loan of up to KSh 10 million if you’re ready to use your car logbook or land title as security. Interest starts at around 3.75% per month, and they give you up to 5 years to pay it back, with smaller unsecured loans also available from KSh 100,000.

Advantages
  • Big money, no delay – You can walk in and walk out with cash in less than an hour—especially if your papers are in order.
  • Flexible repayment – Whether you want 6 months or 60, they let you choose what fits your flow.
  • Loans for big plans – KSh 10M is enough to scale a business, buy property, or sort serious emergencies.
  • Interest is manageable – At 3.75% monthly, it’s lower than many shylocks or app lenders.
  • No nasty surprises – They tell you everything—fees, timelines, interest—before you sign anything.
Disadvantages
  • You give up your logbook or title – That asset’s on the line, so if you mess up, you risk losing it.
  • Interest stacks over time – Five years sounds good, but even 3.75% monthly adds up if you’re not careful.
  • It’s not a full bank – Don’t expect savings, deposits or ATM cards—it’s loans only here.

“Jijenge gives you real money fast, but once your car or land is on the table, you better treat repayment like rent—non-negotiable.”


With Ngao, you can borrow from KSh 100,000 to KSh 4 million by using your car logbook as security. The money hits your account in as little as six hours, and you get up to 24 months to repay, with all charges and interest made clear upfront.

Advantages
  • Quick turnaround – Once your paperwork is clean, you can walk in and walk out with your loan the same day.
  • Everything’s laid out clearly – They don’t hide fees or interest—you know what you’re signing up for from the start.
  • Repayment that fits your pocket – Whether you need a few months or a full two years, you pick what works.
  • Loans that make a real difference – KSh 4M can take care of school fees, grow your biashara, or sort an emergency fast.
  • They’re not just online – With physical branches in several towns, you can talk to a real person if anything comes up.
Disadvantages
  • Your car is on the line – You give them your logbook, so if you delay or default, you risk losing your ride.
  • Interest rates depend on your situation – What you pay will vary based on your car’s value and your loan period.
  • They don’t offer other banking services – No savings, no current accounts—just loans.

“Ngao Credit is a good call when you need big money in a hurry, but once your car is involved, paying back on time isn’t a suggestion—it’s a must.”


KWFT gives out loans starting from around KSh 10,000 all the way up to KSh 45 million, with repayment periods stretching up to 5 years. Interest is charged at a flat monthly rate of 1.67% to 1.8%, plus a one-time processing fee and loan insurance—all clearly broken down before you commit.

Advantages
  • They finance big dreams – With a cap of KSh 45M, you can go beyond small biashara and fund major projects.
  • Repayment is flexible – Whether you’re doing 6 months or 60, the terms are tailored to your income cycle.
  • No hidden mambo – All charges are explained before signing, from interest to insurance.
  • Group or solo—your choice – You can borrow alone or join a group—Mwamba, Mwangaza, Biashara—they’ve got options.
  • Your savings grow too – That 10–20% you save as security isn’t dead money—it earns interest while your loan runs.
Disadvantages
  • Flat rate + insurance = pricey – Over time, that monthly rate adds up, especially on long-term loans.
  • You must save first – They hold back 10–20% of your loan amount as a locked savings, which might limit your cash flow.
  • Some loans need group membership – You’ll need to attend meetings and co-guarantee other members.

“KWFT is a solid lending partner for anyone scaling a business or building a home—but you have to plan smart, because these loans come with structure and commitment.”


Carbon gives loans starting from KSh 2,500 up to KSh 1 million, with repayment options between 2 and 12 months. Interest rates vary from 4.5% to 30% monthly, and you see the full cost upfront before you take the loan—no hidden maths.

Advantages
  • No paperwork, no collateral – Everything’s done through the app, and they don’t ask for a guarantor or land title.
  • You see the real deal upfront – Interest and fees are all shown before you borrow, so you know what you’re signing up for.
  • Quick money when you need it – Once approved, the cash lands in your Carbon wallet in minutes.
  • Your limit grows if you repay on time – Keep a clean record and the system rewards you with higher limits and lower interest.
  • You can also save with them – Carbon isn’t just about loans—you can stash cash and earn up to 15.5% annual interest.
Disadvantages
  • Short-term loans are expensive – If you borrow small and repay slowly, the interest can sting—especially at the upper 30% end.
  • Late fees are not friendly – Miss a payment and you’re hit with a daily penalty, which grows quickly if ignored.
  • No physical office – You’re dealing with an app-only system, so if something goes wrong, you’re talking to a screen, not a person.

“I’d recommend Carbon to anyone who’s sharp with money and sticks to deadlines, because while it’s fast and flexible, the cost of delay is brutal.”


Berry gives out unsecured loans from KSh 500 to KSh 50,000, with repayment periods ranging between 65 to 120 days. The total cost of borrowing falls between 9% and 27%, clearly displayed in the app before you commit—no hidden costs, no last-minute surprises.

Advantages
  • Fast approvals – Apply through your phone and get the money in your M-PESA within minutes—no waiting, no queues.
  • No paperwork drama – You don’t need a payslip, title deed, or guarantor—just your ID, phone and a good M-PESA record.
  • Repay on time, get rewarded – Every loan you pay off on time boosts your limit and builds your trust score.
  • All costs are clear upfront – Before you hit “accept,” you’ll know exactly what’s due and when—straightforward and honest.
  • One-week grace period – Even if you miss your due date, you’ve got 7 days before they start charging penalties.
Disadvantages
  • Interest stacks fast if you delay – Late payments attract a 10% penalty on your full repayment amount.
  • APR gets high on long loans – Borrowing for longer stretches pushes the cost way up.
  • No physical office – It’s a digital-only platform, so if you run into a problem, you’re sorting it through the app or email.

“I think Berry is useful for short-term gaps if you’re sharp with your finances—but if you slack on repayment, it bites back hard.”

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Cash Loans in Kenya
Lender Loan Amounts (KES) Loan Terms Interest Rate Key Features / Method of Receipt
M-Shwari (Safaricom) 1,000 – 1,000,000 30 days 9% one-time fee Cash sent instantly to your M-Pesa account, available for withdrawal 24/7.
Tala 500 – 50,000 21 – 30 days From 0.3% daily Fast cash loans disbursed to M-Pesa in minutes via mobile app.
Branch 500 – 100,000 Up to 12 months From 1.7% monthly Get cash directly in your mobile wallet with flexible repayment options.
KCB Bank Up to 8,000,000 Up to 60 months Competitive bank rates Cash available via M-Pesa (KCB M-Pesa) or over-the-counter at branches.
Equity Bank Up to 3,000,000 (mobile) Up to 24 months Competitive bank rates Instant cash to your phone via EazzyLoan or withdraw from extensive agent/branch network.
Timiza (Absa Bank) 100 – 1,000,000 30 days 6.17% one-time fee Instant cash service on your phone from a major bank.
Faulu Microfinance Bank Varies Up to 96 months ~19% p.a. Cash loans available through mobile banking or at physical branches.
Zenka 500 – 30,000 Up to 61 days Fee from 9-29% Quick cash for emergencies, first loan often free. Disbursed to M-Pesa.
Okash 1,500 – 80,000 Up to 365 days APR from 36% Reliable app for getting quick cash loans anytime.
Momentum Credit 5,000 – 3,000,000 1 – 60 months From 2% per month Provides cash against salaries or logbooks, disbursed to bank/mobile wallet.
Jijenge Credit 5,000 – 2,000,000 Up to 12 months From 5% monthly Fast secured cash loans. Apply online, get cash quickly.
Ngao Credit Up to 5,000,000 Up to 24 months Competitive rates Specializes in logbook loans, providing large amounts of cash against your car.
Kenya Women Microfinance Bank (KWFT) From 5,000 6 – 60 months ~20-22% p.a. Cash loans for women entrepreneurs, available through their branch network.
Carbon 500 – 50,000 Up to 64 weeks From ~5% monthly Mobile app for instant cash loans with flexible repayment.
Berry 500 – 50,000 Up to 65 days Service fee 9-25% Simple and fast cash disbursed to your M-Pesa account.
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