In a significant boost to Kenya’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), Safaricom has unveiled new M-Pesa business credit solutions that allow eligible users to borrow up to KSh400,000. These products are tailored to support informal traders, business owners, and entrepreneurs using Safaricom’s mobile money ecosystem.
This guide explains the different loan products, who qualifies, how to apply, and essential tips for managing and increasing your loan limit.
What Are the New M-Pesa Loan Products?
Safaricom, in partnership with banks and fintech platforms, has launched three distinct credit products under its M-Pesa platform:
1. Fuliza Biashara
An overdraft facility for businesses using the Lipa na M-Pesa Till, allowing them to complete transactions even when their till has insufficient funds.
Loan limit: From KSh1,000 to KSh400,000
Repayment: Automatically deducted from incoming till payments
Purpose: To cushion cash flow gaps in day-to-day business operations
2. Taasi Till Loan
A term loan product offered to Lipa na M-Pesa till holders, which allows lump sum borrowing for short-term business needs.
Loan limit: Between KSh1,500 and KSh250,000
Repayment period: 14 to 30 days
Access: Direct to the till number
3. Taasi Pochi Loan
This is designed for traders using Pochi la Biashara, a simplified M-Pesa wallet for informal businesses.
Loan limit: Ranges from KSh1,000 to KSh250,000
Repayment term: 7 to 30 days
Access: Loan disbursed directly to the Pochi account.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility is based on your usage and history with Safaricom’s business platforms. To qualify, applicants must:
Operate a Lipa na M-Pesa till or Pochi la Biashara wallet
Have an active business profile with at least six months of regular transactions
Maintain a positive credit history, with timely repayment of previous M-Pesa loans or other credit facilities
Comply with Safaricom’s terms and conditions for business services
These products are designed with no need for collateral, making them accessible to informal traders and SMEs traditionally excluded from mainstream banking.
How to Apply for M-Pesa Loans
The application process is straightforward and entirely mobile-based. Here is a breakdown of how to access each loan:
A. Applying for Fuliza Biashara
1. Dial *234# on your mobile phone
2. Select the “Business Loans” option
3. Choose “Fuliza Biashara”
4. Accept the terms and conditions to activate the service
5. The overdraft is automatically applied when your till lacks sufficient funds during transactions
B. Applying for Taasi Till Loan
1. Dial *234# or open the M-Pesa Business App
2. Navigate to Business Financing
3. Select “Taasi Till Loan”
4. Input the amount you wish to borrow (subject to your limit)
5. Confirm the transaction – funds are instantly credited to your till
C. Applying for Taasi Pochi Loan
1. Dial *334# or use the regular M-Pesa App
2. Choose “Business Financing”
3. Select “Taasi Pochi”
4. Enter the desired loan amount
5. Confirm, and the money is deposited into your Pochi wallet
Interest Rates and Charges
Each product has its own interest and fee structure, which is displayed at the time of application. While Safaricom has not publicly disclosed fixed rates for all products, the following general guidelines apply:
Fuliza Biashara: Charges are applied daily until the overdraft is cleared
Taasi Till and Taasi Pochi Loans: Service fees and interest are applied depending on the amount and repayment period selected
It is advisable to carefully read the prompt displayed during loan application to understand the total cost of borrowing.
How to Repay
Repayment mechanisms vary slightly across products:
Fuliza Biashara: Repaid automatically from incoming M-Pesa till payments
Taasi Till and Pochi Loans: Repaid in full within the agreed time, either from your till or wallet balance
Failure to repay on time may lead to:
A reduction in your loan limit
Temporary suspension from accessing loans
Potential listing with a credit reference bureau (CRB) in severe cases
Tips to Increase Your Loan Limit
To gradually build your loan limit and access larger amounts, follow these best practices:
1. Maintain high transaction volumes on your till or Pochi wallet
2. Repay all loans on time to build trust with lenders
3. Use M-Pesa services regularly, including Lipa na M-Pesa, Buy Goods, and Pay Bill
4. Avoid CRB listings and clear any outstanding mobile loans
5. Engage in continuous use of your business line without long periods of inactivity
These factors are assessed automatically by Safaricom and its partner banks to adjust your creditworthiness.
Why This Matters for Kenyan Businesses
Access to affordable credit remains a major hurdle for many small and informal businesses in Kenya. These new loan offerings from Safaricom are timely, helping traders manage inventory, restock, pay suppliers, and handle emergencies, all without traditional bank bureaucracy.
By offering fast, collateral-free loans via mobile, M-Pesa continues to redefine financial inclusion, empowering thousands of SMEs across the country.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of Fuliza Biashara, Taasi Till, and Taasi Pochi loans marks a significant step forward in supporting Kenya’s growing enterprise ecosystem. With borrowing limits as high as KSh400,000, these credit facilities are a game changer for businesses that need flexible, short-term financing.
As with all financial products, responsible borrowing is crucial. Borrow only what you can repay, and ensure your business remains on solid footing.
For more information, visit the M-Pesa Business App or dial the codes provided above to check your eligibility today.
Have questions or need help navigating your loan options? Drop them in the comments below, and we’ll respond with tailored advice.
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