Microcredit in Kenya

Starting a small hustle or need to stock your shop? Microcredit can push you forward. It’s a small loan with big potential.


Faulu Microfinance Bank gives loans from KES 5,000 up to KES 1 million, with repayment time from 6 to 24 months and interest rates about 18% per year. They make it easy to apply, with little paperwork, and money reaches you fast—perfect for small business folks needing quick cash.

Advantages
  • You get loan approval and money in your account within 1 or 2 days.
  • You can pay back in ways that fit how your business makes money.
  • Their interest rates are better than many other microfinance banks.
  • You don’t need much collateral to get a loan.
  • They have branches all over Kenya, so help is near.
Disadvantages
  • Even though interest rates are okay, some might still find them a bit high.
  • The biggest loan you can get is KES 1 million, which might not be enough for some growing businesses.
  • If you pay late, the penalties can get quite expensive.

From my side, Faulu Microfinance Bank is a good choice for entrepreneurs who want quick cash without too much hassle and fair terms in Kenya’s microloan scene.


Rafiki Microfinance Bank gives loans starting at KES 10,000 and going up to KES 1.5 million, with repayment periods from 3 to 18 months and interest rates around 16% per year. They keep things simple and quick, so small business owners and individuals can get money fast without too much paperwork or heavy collateral.

Advantages
  • Loans get approved and disbursed in about two days.
  • Repayment plans are flexible to match different cash flows.
  • Interest rates are lower than many other microfinance lenders.
  • You don’t have to bring a lot of collateral to qualify.
  • They have many branches across Kenya, so getting help is easy.
Disadvantages
  • The max loan amount might be too small for fast-growing businesses.
  • Penalties for late payments can be harsh.
  • The digital loan application system isn’t as advanced as some bigger banks.

From my view, Rafiki Microfinance Bank is a good choice if you want affordable microloans with clear terms and a quick process in Kenya’s market.


Fortune Credit offers loans from KES 20,000 up to KES 2 million, with repayment periods between 6 and 24 months and interest rates around 17% per year. Their process is quick and simple, perfect for small business owners and informal workers who need cash fast without too much hassle.

Advantages
  • Loan approval usually happens within two days.
  • You can borrow amounts that suit both new and growing businesses.
  • Interest rates are fair and balanced.
  • Repayment plans can be adjusted to fit how you earn money.
  • They provide good customer support and have a strong presence locally.
Disadvantages
  • Some find the interest rates a bit high compared to smaller lenders.
  • You might need a guarantor or collateral, which can be tough for tiny businesses.
  • Late fees can make borrowing more expensive if you miss payments.

From where I stand, Fortune Credit is a solid choice for anyone looking for quick, flexible loans with reasonable costs in Kenya’s microcredit scene.


Oya Microcredit gives loans from KES 15,000 up to KES 800,000, with repayment periods between 3 and 12 months and interest rates around 19% per year. They focus on quick online loans with little paperwork, so small business owners and individuals can get money fast without much hassle.

Advantages
  • Applying and getting money is fast, usually within one or two days.
  • No need for big collateral, which makes loans easier to get.
  • Repayment plans are flexible to fit how you earn.
  • Fees are clear upfront—no surprises.
  • Since it’s mostly online, you can apply from anywhere in Kenya.
Disadvantages
  • Interest rates are a bit higher compared to some other microfinance options.
  • Loan amounts are small, which might not work for bigger business needs.
  • Sometimes customer service takes longer to respond on tricky issues.

From my view, Oya Microcredit is a solid pick for those who want fast and simple loans, even if it costs a little more.


Queensways Sacco offers loans from KES 10,000 up to KES 1.2 million, with repayment plans that run between 6 and 24 months and interest rates around 14% per year. These loans are mainly for members, making it easier and cheaper to borrow with less hassle during application.

Advantages
  • Interest rates are lower than most microfinance lenders.
  • Repayment schedules fit well with how members earn their money.
  • The Sacco feels like a community, so support is strong.
  • Since you’re a member, paperwork is kept to a minimum.
  • Saving regularly with the Sacco boosts your chance to get a loan.
Disadvantages
  • Only members can borrow, so it’s not open to everyone.
  • The loan limit might be small for businesses that want to grow fast.
  • Sometimes loan approval takes longer because of manual checks.

From what I’ve seen, Queensways Sacco is a solid and affordable choice for people who want trustworthy loans within a supportive community.


Kenya Women Microfinance Bank (KWFT) offers loans from KES 10,000 up to KES 2 million, with repayment periods lasting between 6 and 36 months and interest rates around 15% per year. They focus on helping women get credit easily, with flexible payment plans and little need for heavy collateral.

Advantages
  • Interest rates are competitive and designed for women borrowers.
  • Lots of branches all over Kenya, so getting help is simple.
  • Repayment schedules that work with different types of income.
  • Strong support for women entrepreneurs beyond just lending.
  • Paperwork is kept simple to speed up loan access.
Disadvantages
  • Sometimes loan approval takes longer when many people apply.
  • Some collateral may still be needed, which can be tricky for a few clients.
  • Loan amounts might feel small for businesses wanting to grow fast.

From where I stand, KWFT is a solid choice for women looking for fair and practical loans that back their business goals.


SMEP Microfinance Bank gives loans from KES 20,000 up to KES 3 million, with repayment periods between 6 and 36 months and interest rates around 16% per year. They focus on helping small and medium businesses get the right amount of cash with flexible payment plans that fit how the business makes money.

Advantages
  • Loan sizes work for both new businesses and those looking to grow.
  • Interest rates are reasonable compared to other microfinance banks.
  • You can pay back in ways that suit your business income patterns.
  • They have special products made just for SMEs.
  • Branches are spread out across Kenya, making it easy to get help.
Disadvantages
  • Getting approved can take time because they check thoroughly.
  • You might need collateral, which can be tough for smaller businesses.
  • Late payment fees can add up and get expensive.

From what I’ve seen, SMEP Microfinance Bank is a trustworthy option for SMEs wanting flexible loans that support their growth plans.


Uwezo Microfinance Bank gives loans from KES 5,000 up to KES 1 million, with repayment periods between 3 and 24 months and interest rates around 18% per year. They focus on helping small business owners and individuals get cash quickly, with easy terms and a fast turnaround.

Advantages
  • Loan approval and money in your account usually happens within two days.
  • Not much collateral is needed, so it’s easier to qualify.
  • Repayment plans are flexible to match your income flow.
  • Interest rates are fair compared to many microfinance banks.
  • They have plenty of branches around Kenya for easy access.
Disadvantages
  • Loan amounts might be too small for businesses that want to grow fast.
  • Interest rates can seem high when compared to some other lenders.
  • Late payment fees can make borrowing more costly.

From where I stand, Uwezo Microfinance Bank works well for quick, flexible loans that support small business owners in Kenya.


Musoni Microfinance offers loans from KES 5,000 up to KES 1.2 million, with repayment periods lasting 6 to 18 months and interest rates around 14% per year. Their all-digital process means you can apply and get money quickly, which works well for small business owners who want speed and transparency.

Advantages
  • Applying for a loan is quick and fully online.
  • Interest rates are lower than many other lenders.
  • No need for lots of paperwork or visiting branches.
  • Repayment plans are flexible and match how you earn.
  • Fees are clear—no hidden costs.
Disadvantages
  • You can’t borrow very large amounts here.
  • If you don’t have a smartphone or good internet, it can be tough.
  • Sometimes it’s hard to get face-to-face help with complicated issues.

From what I see, Musoni Microfinance is a great fit for business owners who want fast and easy loans without fuss, especially if you’re comfortable with digital services.


Sumac Microfinance Bank gives loans from KES 10,000 up to KES 1.5 million, with repayment terms between 6 and 24 months and interest rates about 17% per year. They focus on helping small business owners get cash fast, with flexible payment plans and little paperwork to slow things down.

Advantages
  • You can get loan approval and money within two days.
  • Repayment plans fit how borrowers earn their income.
  • Interest rates are fair compared to other microfinance banks.
  • Not much collateral is needed to qualify.
  • Customer support stays with you through the loan term.
Disadvantages
  • Loan limits might be too low for businesses growing quickly.
  • Late payment penalties can make the loan cost more.
  • The online application system is still improving, so some people might find it tricky.

From what I’ve seen, Sumac Microfinance Bank is a dependable option for small business owners needing quick and flexible loans in Kenya.


Salaam Microfinance Bank offers loans from KES 5,000 up to KES 1.2 million, with repayment terms between 3 and 24 months and interest rates around 16% per year. They focus on quick loan processing for small business owners, with flexible payment plans and little need for collateral.

Advantages
  • Loan approval and cash usually come through within two days.
  • Repayment options are flexible to match how you earn.
  • Interest rates are competitive for microfinance in Kenya.
  • You don’t need much collateral to get a loan.
  • Good customer service with a strong community focus.
Disadvantages
  • Loan amounts might not be enough for fast-growing businesses.
  • Late payment fees can add up and increase costs.
  • Digital services are still improving, which sometimes slows things down.

From what I’ve seen, Salaam Microfinance Bank is a solid pick for small business owners looking for easy and flexible loans in Kenya.


U&I Microfinance Bank gives loans from KES 10,000 up to KES 1 million, with repayment periods between 6 and 24 months and interest rates around 17% per year. They make borrowing simple and fast, focusing on small business owners who need quick cash with flexible payback plans.

Advantages
  • Loan approval and cash in your account usually takes two days.
  • Repayment plans can be adjusted to fit your income cycle.
  • Not much collateral needed, so it’s easier to qualify.
  • Interest rates are fair compared to many other lenders.
  • Local branches offer good customer support when you need it.
Disadvantages
  • Loan amounts might be too small for businesses wanting to expand quickly.
  • Late payment fees can add up and increase the cost.
  • Digital services aren’t as developed as bigger banks.

From what I’ve seen, U&I Microfinance Bank is a solid choice for small businesses looking for quick, flexible loans in Kenya.


Caritas Microfinance Bank lends from KES 5,000 up to KES 1.5 million, with repayment terms between 6 and 24 months and interest rates about 15% per year. Their loans suit small businesses and individuals, with fast approvals, flexible payment plans, and little need for collateral.

Advantages
  • Loan approval and money usually come through within two days.
  • Repayment schedules are flexible to fit how you earn.
  • Interest rates are fair compared to other microfinance banks.
  • Not much collateral is needed to qualify.
  • They offer friendly service focused on community needs.
Disadvantages
  • Loan amounts might not cover bigger business growth.
  • Late payment fees can add to the total cost.
  • Their digital application system is still getting better.

From what I’ve seen, Caritas Microfinance Bank is a solid and approachable choice for small businesses needing flexible and affordable loans in Kenya.


Jijenge Credit offers loans from KES 5,000 up to KES 500,000, with repayment periods between 3 and 18 months and interest rates around 20% per year. They focus on small business owners who need quick cash, with easy applications and payment plans that work with irregular incomes.

Advantages
  • You can get loan approval in about a day.
  • Not much paperwork or collateral is needed.
  • Repayment schedules are flexible to fit how you earn.
  • Customer service is friendly and understands small business needs.
  • You can apply online from anywhere.
Disadvantages
  • Interest rates are a bit high compared to some other lenders.
  • Loan amounts are small, which might not suit growing businesses.
  • They don’t have many branches, so face-to-face help can be limited.

From what I’ve seen, Jijenge Credit works well for quick, easy loans but might not fit those needing bigger amounts or lower rates.


MyCredit Limited gives loans from KES 2,000 up to KES 100,000, with repayment periods between 7 and 30 days and interest rates around 20% per month. It’s built for people who need quick cash on short notice, with a simple mobile app and almost no paperwork.

Advantages
  • Loans get approved and sent to your phone in minutes.
  • The whole process is done on your mobile—no forms to fill.
  • Perfect for emergencies or small cash needs.
  • Clear fees and no hidden charges.
  • Easy to qualify for with simple requirements.
Disadvantages
  • You have to pay back quickly, which can be tough for some.
  • Interest rates are high compared to longer loans.
  • Loan amounts are small, so it’s not for big expenses.

From what I’ve seen, MyCredit Limited works well if you want a fast, small loan, but it’s not the best fit for bigger or longer-term borrowing.


KCB Bank gives microloans from KES 10,000 up to KES 2 million, with repayment periods between 6 and 36 months and interest rates starting around 14% per year. They mix easy digital access with personal service, helping small businesses and entrepreneurs get the funding they need to grow.

Advantages
  • Lots of branches and agents all over Kenya, so getting help is simple.
  • Interest rates are fair compared to many microfinance lenders.
  • You can pay back in ways that match how your business earns.
  • Their online platforms make applying and managing loans easy.
  • They offer a full range of financial products to support business growth.
Disadvantages
  • You might need collateral or a guarantor, which can be a hurdle.
  • Sometimes loan approval takes longer when demand is high.
  • Paperwork can be a bit much for some borrowers.

From what I’ve seen, KCB Bank is a solid choice for entrepreneurs looking for trustworthy and flexible microloans to help their businesses expand.


Equity Bank offers loans from KES 5,000 up to KES 5 million, with repayment periods between 6 and 36 months and interest rates starting around 15% per year. They combine easy digital access with personal support to help small businesses and individuals across Kenya get flexible credit.

Advantages
  • Lots of branches and agents make it easy to reach them.
  • Interest rates are competitive for many types of borrowers.
  • Repayment plans match how businesses earn their money.
  • Mobile and online banking make managing loans simple.
  • They provide many other financial services to help businesses grow.
Disadvantages
  • You might need collateral or a guarantor, which can be tough for some.
  • Loan approvals can take longer when many people apply.
  • The paperwork can be a bit much, especially for new clients.

From what I’ve seen, Equity Bank is a solid and flexible choice for microloans, well suited to Kenya’s wide range of entrepreneurs.

Institution Loan Amounts (KES) Loan Terms Interest Rate (% p.a.) Bonuses/Promotions
Faulu Microfinance Bank Up to 6,000,000 Up to 96 months ~19% 1% discount on setup fee for Imara Loan, Free Last Expense Cover
Rafiki Microfinance Bank 1,000 – 40,000 EUR (or KES equivalent) 12 – 120 months ~5-7% Promotional fixed interest rates for online loans
Fortune Credit Varies by loan type (e.g., BodaBoda, Agri-business) Varies Not specified Specialized financing for green projects and agriculture
Oya Microcredit Small business loans Flexible Competitive rates No collateral, no CRB check, approval in 48 hours
Queensways Sacco Up to 300,000 (for specific loans) 6 – 84 months ~12.96% – 60% Variety of loan products for different needs
Kenya Women Microfinance Bank (KWFT) 5,000 – 45,000,000 6 – 60 months ~20-22% (flat rate) Focus on women entrepreneurs, various training programs
SMEP Microfinance Bank From 5,000 up to 1,000,000 Up to 12 months Competitive Fast processing, no penalty for early repayment
Uwezo Microfinance Bank 10,000 – 14,000,000 3 – 8 years Not specified Focus on youth and women groups, JuaKali operators
Musoni Microfinance 5,000 – 3,000,000 3 – 12 months ~18-22% (flat rate) Group and individual loans available
Sumac Microfinance Bank Varies Varies Not specified Award-winning bank with various loan products
Salaam Microfinance Bank Varies by loan type Flexible Attractive Financing for personal needs, business, and groups
U&I Microfinance Varies Up to 36 months ~7%
Caritas MFB Varies Up to 10 years ~16-21%
Jijenge Credit 5,000,000 – 1,000,000,000 Up to 20 years From 14% Mortgage and housing loans
MyCredit Limited Varies Varies Not specified Kuza Elimu initiative for schools, working capital for businesses
KCB Bank 20,000 – 8,000,000 1 – 60 months ~14.6% + margin Mobile banking and large branch network
Equity Bank 100 – 3,000,000 Up to 24 months Not specified Eazzy Loan available on mobile, instant disbursement
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