In this post, we review the top loan apps in Kenya that offer fair interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and instant M-Pesa disbursement.
1. M-Shwari — Best for M-Pesa Users
Provider: Safaricom and NCBA Bank
Loan Limit: Up to KSh 50,000
Interest Rate: 7.5% per month
M-Shwari is among the most popular mobile lending platforms in Kenya, integrated directly with M-Pesa. You can access it via Safaricom > M-PESA > Loans and Savings > M-Shwari.
After activation, users can borrow instantly or lock savings for 30 days at an interest rate of 30%. Your loan limit grows as you use Safaricom voice, data, and M-PESA more frequently.
Key Features
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Available to all active M-PESA users
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Loans disbursed instantly to M-PESA
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Savings option with interest
2. KCB M-Pesa — Best for High Loan Limits
Provider: KCB Bank & Safaricom
Loan Limit: KSh 50 – 1,000,000
Interest Rate: 8.93% facilitation fee
Repayment Period: 30 days
KCB M-Pesa offers quick loans to M-Pesa users based on savings and transaction history. The platform also provides Target Savings and Fixed Savings Accounts, which can help increase your credit limit.
Why It’s Great
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Access large loan limits
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Reliable banking partner (KCB)
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Quick mobile-based approvals
3. Tala Loan App — Best for Fast Loan Approvals
Loan Limit: Up to KSh 50,000
Interest Rate: 0.3% per day
Tala was among the first loan apps in Kenya and remains a favorite. Known for its fast disbursements and simple user experience, Tala uses your phone data and repayment history to assess creditworthiness.
Pros
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No paperwork
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Quick approval and deposit
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Transparent repayment terms
Timiza by Absa Bank — Best for Salary Advances
Loan Limit: Up to KSh 250,000
Interest Rate: 7.25% monthly
USSD Code: *848#
Timiza is a mobile-only loan platform from Absa Bank that lets you borrow and save directly from your phone. Designed for both banked and unbanked users, it’s accessible 24/7 via USSD or the Timiza app.
Highlights
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Credit score building
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Secure banking integration
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Competitive rates and savings options
Branch Loan App — Best for Flexibility
Loan Limit: Up to KSh 300,000
Interest Rate: 2%–18% monthly
Branch is one of the most reliable loan apps in Kenya. It provides instant loans with flexible repayment schedules and no paperwork. Using your smartphone data and M-Pesa history, Branch determines your eligibility in seconds.
Why Users Love Branch
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Fast loan approvals
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No hidden fees
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Excellent for both emergencies and personal useZenka Loan App — Best for First-Time Borrowers
Loan Limit: Up to KSh 50,000
Interest Rate: 9%–39% (0% for first loan)
Zenka is known for offering interest-free loans to first-time users. You can download the Zenka app, register, and get your first loan without paying any interest — ideal for new borrowers.
Perks
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Instant loan processing
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User-friendly app
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0% first loan offer
7. ASAP Kash Loan App — Best for Low-Interest Borrowing
Loan Limit: Up to KSh 50,000
Interest Rate: 0.05% – 13.82% (annual)
ASAP Kash provides affordable loan solutions with one of the lowest interest rates in the market. The entire process — from application to disbursement — is digital and available 24/7.
Top Features
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No collateral required
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24/7 online access
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Transparent repayment system
8. LendPlus Loan App — Best for Small, Quick Loans
Loan Limit: KSh 500 – 40,000
Interest Rate: 2.2% daily
LendPlus offers fast and easy short-term loans directly to your M-Pesa account. It’s ideal for users needing smaller loans to handle emergencies or temporary cash flow issues.
Advantages
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Quick disbursement
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Flexible repayment plans
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Simple mobile interface
Other Loan Apps Worth Mentioning
While the above are the top-rated platforms, you may also consider:
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Fuliza (for instant overdrafts)
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Hustler Fund (government-backed microloans)
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Okash Loan App (loans from KSh 2,500–50,000 at 5–18% interest)
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iPesa Loan App (transparent terms, up to KSh 50,000)
Advantages of Using Loan Apps Over Traditional Bank Loans
Instant Access to Cash
No more waiting days for loan approvals. Loan apps credit your M-Pesa account instantly — perfect for emergencies like hospital bills or urgent repairs.
Easy and Fast Application Process
The application takes minutes — no lengthy forms or physical documents. Most apps only require basic details and M-Pesa verification.
No Collateral Required
Unlike bank loans, mobile loans are unsecured, making them more accessible to ordinary Kenyans.
Flexible Repayment Options
Many apps allow repayment over different periods, depending on your financial capability.
Final Thoughts: Borrow Smart, Not Hard
Loan apps in Kenya have made it easier than ever to access quick credit. However, it’s crucial to borrow responsibly. Always understand the interest rates, repayment timelines, and fees before taking any loan.
Used wisely, these apps can help you manage your finances efficiently — but misuse can lead to debt traps. Choose the app that fits your needs and repayment ability best.
FAQs About Loan Apps in Kenya
1. Which loan app has the lowest interest rate in Kenya?
Timiza and ASAP Kash are among the lowest, with rates as low as 0.05% annually.
2. Which loan app offers instant approval?
Tala, Branch, and Zenka offer some of the fastest approvals — often within minutes.
3. Can I get a loan without CRB clearance?
Yes. Some apps, like Branch and Tala, still approve loans based on alternative data like phone usage and M-Pesa transactions.