20 Best Loan Apps in Kenya offering Instant Loans in 2025

Getting access to quick, reliable credit has become easier than ever, thanks to the rise of the best loan apps in Kenya. With most Kenyans relying on mobile money platforms like M-Pesa for everyday transactions, digital lending has naturally grown into a convenient solution for emergencies, business needs, and personal financing.

These apps have transformed borrowing by offering fast approvals, minimal requirements, and fully mobile processes. They offer instant loans, flexible limits, and quick disbursement, making them a lifeline for millions of Kenyans seeking affordable, convenient credit.

Traditional bank loans, on the other hand, often involve lengthy procedures, strict documentation, and collateral requirements such as logbooks or title deeds. This means many people, especially students, small business owners, and low-income earners, are left without quick financial support when they need it most.

In this guide, we break down the leading mobile lending options and review the best loan apps in Kenya.

Top Lending Mobile Apps in Kenya

Emergencies, among other pressing needs, require financial assistance, which mobile applications can provide. 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

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 an 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’s 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 their credit ratings.

2. Fuliza

This is a Safaricom product that offers continuous overdraft service. It facilitates M-Pesa transactions even when you have sufficient funds on your phone. This product offers convenience when transacting, facilitating operations while running errands. The repayment period is 30 days, and interest accrues if the installment is not paid on time. The amount is recovered from the M-Pesa account balance or from funds 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

Tala bridges the digital and cash ecosystems to help customers seamlessly manage 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 approximately 10 million downloads.

Tala embraces the best of artificial intelligence technology to deliver a customized, rewarding financial experience. Their proprietary data tools provide key access to solutions that were previously unavailable.

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, paybill 851900, or USSD code *846#.

Read our detailed Tala Loan App review.

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 and KES 120,000, with interest rates of 4% to 7%.

For registration, present a copy of your Kenyan National Identity Card or a 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 customers’ financial needs. This is open to resident or non-resident Kenyans, individuals, groups, or corporations.

5. KCB M-Pesa

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 7.35% with repayment 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

This is a product for Absa Bank offering mobile banking services. You can access quick loans and perform transactions. An alternative way to access the services is to dial *848# and follow the simple steps. The loan repayment period is within a month, which may help pay bills and purchase airtime, among other services.

Customers can also obtain insurance when conducting transactions via Timiza on their phones. 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 Play or App Store.

7. Branch

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

The branch loan app is like a bank in your pocket, available when you need it. The credit platform offers loans instantly at competitive rates as customers may need them.

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

If you wish to read more about Branch, you can check out our detailed Branch review here.

8. Hikash

This Android mobile app provides financial solutions to customers. Download the App, then complete the sign-up process by filling out the online forms. Hikash offers competitive market rates and is customized to meet user needs.

Defaulters are restricted from accessing credit services due to a Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) listing, which underscores their creditworthiness.

9. Zenka

Zenka mobile app offers emergency loans of up to Ksh. 500 to Ksh. (30,000) Thirty thousand dollars were 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.

You can read our detailed Zenka review here.

10. KCB mobile loan

This is a platform for Kenya Commercial Bank that offers instant mobile loans to customers. Clients choose repayment tenor, which ranges from 1 day to 12 months. The bank adopted this innovation to reach a wider market and expand its customer base. This had a positive impact on the economy, as 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 lets customers apply for loans in a few steps and receive funds instantly. It offers loans of up to KES 60,000 and requires your details to qualify for your application. Repayment history determines your creditworthiness and loan limit, according to set guidelines.

The application process is completely digital and easy to complete on 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 the 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 an 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 for accessing the loans is to dial *247# and follow the steps. The app offers self-service features that help customers register and complete transactions.

13. Zash Loan

Zash Loan offers seamless credit services to its customers. Download the App, install it, and complete the registration process by filling out the 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. It is focused on online micro and consumer financing and aims to empower customers.

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

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.

Check out the detailed True Pesa review.

16. Hustler fund

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

The interest rate is 8%, and a 1.5% default rate applies to 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

The NCBA Bank product allows customers to check their eligibility 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 to help customers during unexpected situations. 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. M-Coop Cash

The app allows registered Co-operative Bank customers to transact and sign up for free. Loan amounts range from KES 1,000 to KES 500,00, and the repayment period is 1-3 months.

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

19. SC Juza

SC-Juza is a mobile app offered by Standard Chartered Bank that lets you borrow from KES 1,000 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 the Play Store or App Store, then install it on your device.

20. M-fanisi

M-fanisi is offered by Maisha Finance Bank. Kenya Bankers Association reported in 2023 that M-fanisi was the first microfinance institution to roll out a telco-backed mobile-based banking service. It’s an easy and free sign-up process that targets Safaricom M-Pesa and Airtel Money subscribers.  

You can access the services using USSD code *281# or download the App from the Google Play Store.

FAQs About the Best Loan Apps in Kenya

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), which gives customers confidence when engaging with them.

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 for not operating within the law. Google also shared a notice to ban unlicensed loan apps from its online store. Government agencies are monitoring the operations of the lending apps.

Bottom Line

Mobile lending apps have revolutionized the financial sector by enabling easier access to credit. 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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Edward Omwoyo

Content Strategist with copywriting skills cultivated over five years. I have accomplished multiple projects that have yielded valuable results. I am enthralled by business, fintech, and global eco-politics practices that ensure sustainability.