Kenyans borrowed KSh1.16 trillion through Safaricom’s Fuliza overdraft service in the six months to September 2026, representing an 84 per cent increase compared to the KSh629 billion recorded during a similar period in 2025.
The latest figures highlight the growing reliance on mobile-based credit facilities among M-Pesa customers seeking to complete transactions despite having insufficient funds in their accounts.
According to the reported performance figures, Fuliza’s user base also recorded significant growth, rising from 9.1 million customers in the corresponding period in 2025 to 17.2 million in the six months to September 2026.
This represents an increase of approximately 88.9 per cent, indicating that more Kenyans are turning to the overdraft facility to access short-term credit.
The service generated KSh4.9 billion in revenue for Safaricom during the six-month period, further cementing its position as an important contributor to the telecommunications company’s financial performance.
Fuliza allows M-Pesa customers to complete transactions, including sending money and making payments, even when their available account balances are insufficient, with the outstanding amount recovered once funds are deposited.
Sidian Bank Joins Fuliza Lending Partners
In another development, Sidian Bank has joined KCB Bank and NCBA Bank as a lending partner in the Fuliza overdraft service.
The addition expands the financial institutions participating in the facility as demand for mobile-based borrowing continues to grow.
Fuliza has become one of Kenya’s most widely used mobile credit services, offering customers access to short-term overdrafts directly through the M-Pesa platform.
The latest figures underline the increasing role of digital lending in Kenya’s financial sector, although the growing borrowing volumes also highlight the importance of responsible credit use among consumers.
