In Kenya’s fast-growing digital lending space, Timiza by Absa Bank Kenya stands out as one of the most trusted and convenient mobile loan apps. Designed for both Absa and non-Absa customers, Timiza provides quick loans, savings accounts, and even insurance—all from your phone.
This article takes a deep look into everything about Timiza: how it works, who can apply, loan limits, interest rates, repayment methods, and whether it’s worth your time.
What Is Timiza?
Timiza is a mobile financial service by Absa Bank Kenya that allows users to access instant loans, open savings accounts, pay bills, and buy insurance directly through their mobile phones.
It operates mainly through the Timiza mobile app (available on Android and iOS) and USSD code *848#, making it accessible to smartphone and feature phone users alike.
The app aims to give every Kenyan quick access to affordable financial services without having to visit a physical bank branch.
How Timiza Works
Once you download the app or dial *848#, Timiza links your account to your Safaricom mobile number and M-PESA wallet. The system automatically assesses your borrowing limit based on your M-PESA transaction history, savings habits, and repayment performance.
From there, you can:
- Apply for a loan instantly and receive funds in your M-PESA account.
- Save money through the Timiza savings account.
- Pay bills like KPLC or buy airtime directly.
- Insure yourself through affordable microinsurance plans.
Timiza Loan Features
Timiza loans are designed for speed, flexibility, and convenience. Here’s what makes them stand out:
1. Loan Amount and Limit
Your loan limit depends on your credit score, mobile money usage, and repayment history. Limits start as low as Ksh 50 and can rise to Ksh 150,000 for consistent users.
2. Interest Rate and Fees
Timiza loans attract:
- Interest rate: 6.17% (one-time facility fee).
- Excise duty: 20% on the facility fee.
That translates to an effective cost of about 7.17% on the borrowed amount.
For example, if you borrow Ksh 1,000, you’ll repay approximately Ksh 1,071.70 within 30 days.
3. Loan Duration
The loan repayment period is 30 days, after which you must repay the full amount plus fees.
4. Loan Disbursement and Repayment
- Disbursement: Instant to your M-PESA account.
- Repayment: Done easily through the Timiza app, *848# USSD, or M-PESA PayBill 300067 (Account: your phone number).
How to Register and Apply for a Timiza Loan
You can register and apply for a Timiza loan in two ways:
Option 1: Using the Timiza App
- Download the Timiza app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
- Register with your Safaricom number.
- Accept the terms and conditions.
- The system evaluates your credit score and sets your loan limit.
- Apply for your preferred amount and receive funds instantly in M-PESA.
Option 2: Using USSD Code
- Dial *848# on your Safaricom line.
- Follow the prompts to register.
- Choose “Loans” and enter your preferred amount.
- Confirm your loan, and the money will be sent to your M-PESA wallet.
How to Repay Your Timiza Loan
You can repay your Timiza loan in three easy ways:
- Via Timiza App: Go to the “Loans” section → “Repay Loan.”
- Via M-PESA PayBill:
- PayBill Number: 300067
- Account Number: Your Safaricom number
- *Via USSD 848#: Select “Loan Repayment” and follow the steps.
Repaying early helps improve your credit score and increases your loan limit.
Timiza Loan Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Timiza loan, you must:
- Be a Safaricom subscriber.
- Have an active M-PESA account.
- Be 18 years or older.
- Maintain consistent M-PESA transactions.
- Have no outstanding unpaid mobile loans on platforms like M-Shwari or KCB M-PESA.
How to Increase Your Timiza Loan Limit
Here are some smart tips to boost your borrowing limit:
- Repay loans early. This shows reliability.
- Transact regularly on M-PESA (buy airtime, pay bills, send money).
- Save consistently using the Timiza savings account.
- Avoid defaults with other loan apps or CRB listings.
The more you use Timiza responsibly, the higher your loan limit grows over time.
Timiza Savings Account
Apart from loans, Timiza also offers a digital savings account that allows users to save and earn interest.
Key Features:
- Interest rate: Up to 9% per annum, depending on your balance.
- Accessibility: Funds can be withdrawn at any time via M-PESA.
- Automation: You can set automatic savings from your M-PESA wallet.
This feature encourages financial discipline and can even help improve your loan limit.
Timiza Insurance Services
Through partnerships with insurers, Timiza offers microinsurance covers directly within the app.
Popular products include:
- Personal accident cover
- Hospital cash insurance
- Funeral cover
These plans are affordable and designed to protect you and your family from unexpected emergencies.
Timiza Pay Bill and Other Services
With Timiza, you can do much more than borrow.
- Buy airtime for yourself or others.
- Pay utility bills such as electricity and water.
- Send money to other mobile numbers.
- Deposit and withdraw between Timiza and M-PESA easily.
It’s an all-in-one mobile banking solution.
Timiza App Download Links
- Android Users: Google Play Store – Timiza App
- iPhone Users: App Store – Timiza App
You can also use 848# if you don’t have a smartphone.
Timiza Customer Care Contacts
If you need help, contact Timiza customer support through:
- Phone: 0722 130 120 or 0732 130 120
- Email: timiza@absa.africa
- Social Media: @AbsaKenya (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram)
- Website: www.absa.co.ke/timiza
Advantages of Using Timiza
- Backed by Absa Bank Kenya, a trusted financial institution.
- Fast loan approval and instant disbursement.
- No need for a bank account to access loans.
- Offers savings, insurance, and bill payments on a single platform.
- Available via app and USSD, suitable for all users.
Disadvantages of Timiza
- Loans have a 30-day repayment period, which may be short for some users.
- Interest and excise duty can feel high for small loans.
- Only available for Safaricom users.
Timiza Loan App Review: Is It Worth It?
Yes — if you’re looking for a secure, convenient, and fast mobile loan app backed by a reputable bank, Timiza is one of the best choices in Kenya.
Unlike many independent loan apps, Timiza operates under strict banking regulations by the Central Bank of Kenya, ensuring transparency and data protection.
It’s perfect for emergencies, short-term cash needs, and even saving or insuring yourself—all from your phone.
Conclusion
The Timiza loan app by Absa Bank Kenya continues to empower Kenyans with fast, safe, and reliable digital financial solutions. Whether you need a small emergency loan, want to grow your savings, or buy affordable insurance, Timiza makes it easy—anytime, anywhere.
By maintaining good repayment habits and consistent M-PESA usage, you’ll not only improve your creditworthiness but also unlock higher loan limits over time.
If you haven’t tried it yet, download the app or dial *848# today and experience modern mobile banking made simple.
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